Students at SAIIE will have the chance to participate in volunteering opportunities at Padres Blancos. Padres Blancos School is a private catholic institution in Seville, well reputed for its education, faculty, facilities, and resources. This option is not available during our Summer and Winterim Session.
What ages/grades are served?
Kindergarden (ages 3 to 6)
Primary (ages 6 to 11)
Secondary (called ESO) (ages 11 to 16)
High School (called Bachillerato) (ages 16 to 18)
When are they in session?
Padres Blancos’ academic year starts the second week of September and lasts until mid-June, with examination weeks in late-June and early-September for any students that fall behind.
What is the difference between high school in the U.S. and high school in Spain?
High schools are very strict in Spain. The curriculum tends to be broader and more difficult. This is because Spanish students must take special exams before entering university. Depending upon their grades, they can access the field of study they want or may be forced to choose another career. These exams are called “examenes de selectividad”. The level of difficulty is extremely high, especially at a school like Padres Blanco.
What types of volunteering opportunities are available at Padres Blancos?
In the past, our students have assisted in English classes; looked after kids during lunch breaks; practiced and played soccer, basketball and volleyball with the student teams; and joined painting, dancing, and theatre groups. Students can also join spiritual groups or participate in service work.
Are there any prerequisites skills needed?
No specific skills are required. However, students must be willing to help and make a commitment.
Is there a language requirement?
Even though it is recommended you speak a little Spanish, it is not required. However, you should be eager to learn.
Who will the students be working with?
Depending upon the activities chosen, students will work with faculty and/or coaches at Padres Blancos and the program coordinator at the Spanish-American Institute of International Education(SAIIE).
What is the typical time commitment for each opportunity?
It depends upon the student and their schedule, but most students volunteer a minimum of one day per week for 2 ½ hours.
Can I receive academic credit for the experience?
At the moment, academic credit is not available through the SAIIE nor the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, however we hope to have a credit-bearing experience available in the near future.
How can I learn more?
Contact SAIIE in Seville at +34. 954 22 23 04 / 954 502 877 or email the SAIIE Student Affairs Director, Elena García Fernández at elenagf@saiie.com