Final reflections

As the saying goes better late than never! I’ve been back home for just over a week and had some time to reflect on the month that’s been. Firstly I want to say how grateful I am to have had this opportunity and send a big thank you to everyone who’s made it happen.

The last month in Moncada / Valencia was an immensely valuable learning experience. There were highs and lows all of which has made me more able to tackle the unfamiliar with greater confidence.

Before going out to Spain I had some vague ideas of what I hoped to get out of it. Gaining more hands on experience in the classroom and working with young learners were the big ones.

What I didn’t anticipate or give much importance to was just how much of a cultural ‘induction’ I would have. Working in an authentic Spanish environment and interacting with the students, staff and parents provided unique insights on the similarities and differences between British and Spanish culture. I still can’t quite get my head around 2 hr & 45 min lunches but oh well.

I’ve met some lovely people in the form of my fellow teachers who I hope to keep in touch with. The wonderful students at Dominicas really made this experience what it was. They were enthusiastic, excitable (maybe too much at times :-) and just good fun to teach.

It’s true that I had half formed thoughts about working in Spain before going to Valencia. A month of sunshine seems to have worked wonders as I’m now seriously considering going back!