| What level of Spanish do I need? |
The standard programme requires that you have a basic conversational Spanish. Generally to GCSE level or equivalent. As part of the application we will ask you to write a letter in Spanish to your host family and this will generally give you a good indication of your Spanish knowledge. We certainly don’t expect participants to be fluent before they leave but it is important that you have a certain level of knowledge to build upon as you may often find yourself in situations where no one will be able to speak English.
If you do not have the required language skills but are willing to learn, you can apply to study Spanish as part of your volunteer programme. Click here for more information.
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| Why do I need an Orientation Interview?
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| We ask all applicants to attend an Orientation Interview in our London office. It is not a formal interview, but a chance for us to get to know more about you and reasons for volunteering. We can discuss the type projects you are interested in and in turn give you more information about Peru. It is also an opportunity for you to ask us any questions you might have. If you would like to apply and cannot travel to London for an interview, please call us on 020 7251 3472 to discuss your situation.
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| What medical advice does BUNAC offer?
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| We provide a medical leaflet for Peru with recommended injections for you to have. Our programme Handbook also includes practical health and safety guidelines. As a programme participant you must visit your GP as soon as possible to receive expert health advice. We will provide you with medical form which must be completed by you and your GP who must ultimately declare that you are fit to participate on this programme. The cost of the medical can vary; on average you should expect to pay up to £70. As the types of inoculations will vary depending on your destination and also your personal medical history it is very difficult to provide a guide to the typical cost. However, please be aware that whilst some inoculations are relatively cheap others (specifically anti malarials) can be very expensive. Please discuss your specific needs with your GP.
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| Can I choose my placement?
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| Due to the nature of the local projects we work with, unfortunately we cannot guarantee specific placements for participants. However, we try to match your skills and preferences as closely as possible to a suitable placement and encourage volunteers to be as flexible as possible, open to new experiences and prepared to lend a hand where necessary.
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| Will I be placed with other volunteers?
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| It is possible that you may share accommodation or be working at the same project as another volunteer but we cannot guarantee this as it is based on individual placement preferences and availability. Ultimately BUNAC’s volunteer programmes offer a lot of support, but they are intended to be independent experiences where the individual can gain a considerable amount.
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| Do I need to apply for a visa?
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| No, you will travel on a tourist visa, which will be issued at immigration on arrival. You will be given 90 days which can be extended whilst in Peru. Our partners INTEJ will be able to assist you with this.
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| Can I book my own flights?
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| If you do not wish to take one of BUNAC’s group flight departures then you can arrange your own travel. We must see proof of outbound and inbound travel before your departure. You must make sure you arrive in Peru in time for the arrival orientation programme that you undertake with other volunteers.
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| How many people take part in the programme?
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| Numbers vary however the maximum number on each flight is approximately ten; the minimum could be two or three.
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| Do I have to go to the arrival orientation?
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| The orientation is covered in the programme cost and is vital that all participants attend. The orientation is an integral part of your trip. Our local host will introduce you to the country and culture and answer any questions you may have. It is also good way for you to meet other volunteers from both the UK and abroad.
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| Can I go for less than the required programme minimum?
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| Volunteer Peru runs for either 8 weeks or 12 weeks. We believe that a volunteer would not be able to accomplish much or feel satisfied with their participation on a project if they were there for a period shorter than the required minimum.
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| Will there be a chance to travel during my stay?
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| During your placement you will generally have weekends free to travel. We encourage volunteers to take time out at the end of their placement to see more of the country. It is quite common for volunteers to travel together. Your visa can be extended for up to 180 days when in Peru.
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