Sarah Blessington, 40, Administrator
South Africa Wild Coast Teaching Volunteers
  South Africa Wild Coast Teaching Volunteers
In total, how long were you away from home?
Three months. Two months with the project, and one month travelling.
What was your motivation to take a gap break?
To learn and experience something new, (I've never taught or worked with kids before).
How did you feel before you joined the programme?
Good, and little anxious sometimes, but nothing to stress about. I always feel a little anxious before going on trip.... new experiences, new places and new people etc.
How did Gap Year For Grown Ups compare with your expectations?
I'd not ventured into the gap experience/voluntary work field before, so I really didn't have any expectations, other than what I would expect from a travel/tour organiser. I got the information I wanted when I needed it, and knew there was always someone I could contact if I had any problems or queries.
 What was the accommodation like?
Very good.
What did you think of the programme / did your project and destination meet your expectations?
The project and the project organisers exceeded my expectations. My experience at the school was life enhancing, and dare I say changing. And the South Africa team were outstanding; they provided support in, and out of the school environment, and made us feel at home and constantly gave encouragement, and also made us feel like we were making a difference.
What was the most memorable moment of your trip? Any anecdotes?
So many I don't know where to begin. But what can I say... THE KIDS, THE KIDS, THE KIDS.... they made it for me.
What do you feel you accomplished during your programme?
I don't know about accomplishments, but as I've mentioned before, I found the experience was life enhancing and life changing. I am all fired for more and plan to go back next year, not just to Cintsa, but also to some other programmes I came across while I was travelling. Also, I am going to do a CELTA course in teaching English as a foreign language.
 What advice could you of offer to someone considering this programme?
Just to go for it and enjoy the experience... you will learn from it and it will change your life. No matter what your skills or experience, you will have to something to offer, no matter how small. You will make a difference and the experience will make a difference in you.
South Africa Wild Coast Teaching Volunteers
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