EARLY APPLICANTS BAG THE BEST U.S. SUMMER CAMP JOBS
As millions of Americans begin their traditional Halloween celebrations, now is the time to plan a working holiday of a lifetime in another great American institution: the summer camp. BUNAC, the overseas work and travel specialist, has recently launched its 2007 Summer Camp USA programme, a fun and low-cost way to spend next summer living and working with children. Thousands of the best camp counselling jobs in summer camps across the US are now open to applicants aged 18 and over with the relevant childcare skills. A summer camp experience is especially valuable for those who plan to work with children but it’s also a great way to enjoy a rewarding summer in the US, making new friends, gaining new skills and learning about the American way of life, regardless of future career track.
Camp counsellors are placed in a wide variety of roles at one of the 10,000 or so camps, mainly in the North-Eastern, Midwest and South-Eastern states of the US, but also in Canada. Summer camp involves working with children aged 6 to 16, so good recent experience of working with groups of children is essential, ideally in a leadership role. Candidates with skills in the core camp activities of horse riding, tennis, gymnastics, swimming and other water sports, outdoor pursuits, theatre, arts and crafts are in particular demand. Each applicant attends an interview to assess their skills, experience and suitability for camp. Once accepted on the programme, they receive a carefully selected, specific job placement before leaving the UK.
As well as an expert placement service, Summer Camp USA represents excellent value for money. Participants do not need to pay for their transatlantic flight upfront as this is initially covered by BUNAC. They also receive a guaranteed minimum in-hand salary on completion of contract, even after deductions for their flight (those with certain specialist skills can earn more). Other programme benefits include assistance in obtaining the J-1 visa plus free food and accommodation while on camp. Participants can travel anywhere in North America before they return home.
The first step to applying is to visit the BUNAC website or call (020) 7251 3472 to request a copy of the new Summer Camp USA Brochure which gives full details of the 2007 programme. By logging onto www.bunac.org/APPLY, applicants can book a place at a regional interview session and complete the Application Form. Candidates pay £82 to register and take part in the interview; a £25 deposit is payable at the time of the interview booking. The registration fee goes towards the interview venue and the interviewer’s time and initial programme and administrative expenses.
BUNAC offers a wide range of work abroad programmes in Canada, the USA, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa plus overseas volunteering/teaching placements. For further information, visit www.bunac.org or call (020) 7251 3472.
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Press: for further information, contact Sarah Leavesley or Haydn Parks @ BUNAC. Tel: (020) 7251 0662
(please quote 020 7251 3472 in articles). E-mail: sarah.leavesley@bunac.org.uk or haydn.parks@bunac.org.uk
Photography and past participants are available.