(Closing date for Applications end of Feb 2011)

Is this for me?

Volunteers should be native English speakers, living in the UK and must be 20+ on January 1st in the year in which they volunteer. There is no upper age limit but it is very demanding work in a hot climate, so you need to be fit.

What will I do?

Teach English to young children and adults or arts, crafts, music and drama to younger children in the West Bank or with Palestinian communities in Lebanon.

Is it dangerous?

The Middle East is an area where there is always the possibility of conflict. Through training we attempt to minimise the risk to you and expect our volunteers to behave in a responsible manner.

What happens when?

Closing date for applications is the end of February. Interviews for the summer 2011 programme will take place in London on 26th March (if short-listed). There are training days (if selected) on 16th and 17th April and 18th June, which you must attend. The programmes will last the whole of July but the departure date may be as early as 29th June.

Do I need to be a qualified teacher?

No, but a TEFL is an advantage and you should have teaching experience.

How much will it cost?

Each volunteer pays £550 which covers flights, insurance, accommodation, food and teaching materials.

Will I be on my own?

No, volunteers live in small single-sex teams of 4 or 5 with an experienced coordinator.

What are the living conditions?

Fairly basic within the refugee camps, often with power and water shortages. You must not expect home comforts or privacy.

What personal qualities are important?

Sensitivity, tolerance, adaptability, readiness to learn, political awareness and tenacity. You must be a good team person.

How do I apply?

Download and read the Notes, then download and fill out the Application Form. E-mail the completed form to volunteers@unipal.org.uk with the names and contact details of two referees, work or study related. (They will only be contacted if you are selected). Alternatively, send it to Unipal by post at BCM Unipal, London, WC1N 3XX.