Standard EVS On-Arrival Training

Aims & objectives

- Getting the participants familiar with the basic cultural characteristics of Bulgarian people, introducing the dynamics of the socio-political system, underligning key elements of the Bulgarian political system, etc;
- Supporting the adaptation process in a foreign country through discussion of potential problems during the stay;
- Creating a positive atmopshere for building friendly relationships between the volunteers and giving them the opportunity for mutual support during their stay in Bulgaria;
- Introducing and considering key elements of the intercultural learning process;
- Considering different behaviors according to the cultural identity;
- Creating a plan to achieve the objectives in the voluntary service;
- Clarifying technical details, explaining the rights and responsibilities of the volunteer and the host organization;
- Getting familiar with proper behavior models in any conflict within own project;
- Other techincal issues - visas, AXA Insurance, support of the National Agency.

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

The group had 21 participants from 12 countries:
- Portugal - 1
- Italy - 4
- France - 3
- Poland - 2
- Spain - 3
- Croatia - 1
- Germany - 2
- Lithuania - 1
- Latvia - 1
- Georgia - 2
- Netherlands - 1

Training methods used & main activities

Discussions, short lectures, group work, role-plays, brainstorming, energizing games, individual work, creative tasks, on-the-field task, etc.

Outcomes of the activity

Goals of the training was achieved as planned. Group members have received the key basic knowledge on Bulgarian culture and reality, details on the EVS activity and the Erasmus+ programme as well as its management in Bulgaria. They had the opportunitiy to practice communication and conflict management skills, and to visualize their expectation for the development of the own EVS project.

Your tasks and responsibilities within the team

- Creating a positive working environment and open communication atmoshpere;
- Provoking discussions on expectations and providing expectations & change management techniques to participants;
- Enhancing reflection moments and discussion between participants;
- Clarifying technical issues such as programmes rules, roles' rights and responsibilities, insurance, Youthpass, etc;
- Developing effective communication, conflict management and intercultural awareness skills amongst participants;
- Provoking expectations management, negotiation skills and pro-active thinking among the participants.

I worked on this training for 5 days days as a full time trainer.