EVS On-arrival training

Aims & objectives

Aim : to prepare volunteers for the service period, EVS experience and to facilitate adaptation to new cultural environment.
Objectives:
• To meet and network with other EVS volonteers
• To exchange first experiences from RO, clarify questions related to volunteers’ projects and clarify rights and responsibilities of all persons involved
• To enhance the communication and problem solving skills
• To provide guidance on conflict prevention and dealing with challenges
• To raise awareness of cultural differences and to stimulate cultural adaptation & intercultural learning among volunteers
• To stimulate learning during the service period

Target group & international/intercultural composition of the group & team

Team of trainers consisted of 4 trainers. Participants were 20 EVS volunteers coming from 8 countries.

Training methods used & main activities

On-arrival training was based upon non-formal education approach. A combination of different creative and interactive methods were used: Ice-breaking and Getting to know each other activities, Workshops, Discussion, Community project, Individual work and counselling, Theoretical Input, Presentations, Personal, group, and meta reflections and evaluations.

Outcomes of the activity

Participants:
• Are aware of and had the chance to discuss questions about visas, residence permits, her/his legal status as a volunteer, insurance, the EVS Agreement and 'What to expect from EVS';
• know what support is available from the National Agency, SALTO and the Youth Helpdesk of the Executive Agency;
• are aware of how to deal with cultural differences and with conflicts;
• are familiar with the role of each partner (SO, RO, CO, volunteer) in the project and knows her/his own rights and responsibilities;
• had a chance to meet and network with other EVS volunteers;
• learned about the objectives and principles of EVS and the Erasmus+ Programme;
• know the meaning of being an EVS volunteer;
• reflected on personal goals and ideas for his/her voluntary service (and future achievements which could be included in the Youthpass)
• know where to find information about insurance and crisis management systems (AXA documentation and procedures);
• had a chance to explore own and other cultures and is aware of cultural influence on EVS service

Your tasks and responsibilities within the team

Design of the program. Delivery of the sessions. Writing report.

I worked on this training for 4 days as a full time trainer.