Christian Aid gap year: don't hang around!

Whether you have just got your A-level results or you're fresh out of university, all you have left to look forward to is the future.

You're probably wondering: now what?

How about changing the way young people think? How about making a difference?

If you�re over 18, passionate about global justice, and able to communicate this passion to a young audience, we�d love to have you volunteer with us on the Christian Aid gap year scheme.

From September to June each year, Christian Aid has placements for volunteer Youth and Student Development Officers in offices around the UK.

Scroll down to find out how to apply - and hurry... the closing date for the 2009/2010 gap year is the 22 May 2009!

Get out there

You�ll work mainly with young people, informing and inspiring them to get involved in the anti-poverty movement. You will also be sent on a two-week trip to a developing country to see our work in action.

You may be asked to fill a specialist placement. However, most gap year volunteers find that their work includes some of the following:

leading talks, youth group sessions or workshops on global issues
organising events to raise awareness
sometimes working evenings and/or weekends (but having time off in the week to make up for this).

What's in it for you?

In return, we�ll give you great support, cover your expenses and living costs, and provide you with opportunities to develop your skills and experience.

By the end of your time with us, we reckon you'll have loads more confidence, be a great public speaker and have glistening media and IT skills.

Although you don�t have to be a Christian to take part you might work with church groups. But your role is always to raise awareness of our development and campaigning work.

How to apply

Read and keep the volunteer arrangement form and the information for volunteers.
Give a reference form to each of your two referees (references should come from people who know you well but who aren't in your family).
Print the application form and send it along with the completed reference forms to the address below.
Closing date for applications for the 2009/2010 gap year is the 22 May 2009.

What happens next?

Once we�ve read your application form, you may be invited to a meeting so we can get to know you and decide whether you�re suitable for the programme. You�ll also be able to ask us questions.

If you�re accepted, we�ll work out which area office would suit you best. We�ll set up a visit for you to see the office and meet the people you�ll be working with. If everyone�s happy, you�ll start in September.