Language Year Abroad
Studying languages at Uni?
If you’re studying Spanish or Portuguese at University and looking for a Language Year placement, why not consider serving God in Latin America and getting fully immersed in a different culture?
Your placement will come under our Stride programme. Stride is designed for committed Christians who feel drawn to put their faith into practice in a Latin American culture. You’ll spend at least six months working alongside a church or Christian-run project, responding to local needs and getting involved in the local community.
This is a great option for a Year Abroad as you are fully immersed in the local culture and have no option but to put your language skills into action!
Possible placements
We know everyone is unique and at different stages on their journey with God. Our Stride team will work alongside you and look to place you in a project where you can use your gifts and skills for the kingdom, and explore what God might be leading you into in the future!
We have a very large network of partners and projects who we work with sustainably. We will talk to you more about possibilities for your placement once you have applied.
Get in touch with us on stride@latinlink.org.uk to find out more.
Accommodation
You’ll be placed with a Latin American host family, which is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture. Latin Americans are very hospitable so you’ll most likely become a real part of the family! You will have everything you need, but expect fairly basic and cosy accommodation as placements are often in areas/communities of need.
How much does it cost?
All placements are self-funded. The total cost of your placement will depend on a number of factors (where you’re going/ how long for) but below is an overview of how costs are calculated:
| Paid to | Covers | Amount | |
| Launch cost | Latin Link | Application process, DBS, health checks and advice, residential Orientation, debriefing, fundraising support | £1450 |
| Monthly contribution | Latin Link | Insurance, mentoring, supervision, placement set-up, team days and conference | £170/ month |
| Flights | Travel agent | Flexible return flight | ~£1,200 |
| Living costs | In country | Food, accommodation, transport, communication etc. | ~£400-£600/month (~£3000 for 6 months) |
What support will I receive?
You will be fully supported by Latin Link before, during and after your placement. We would also stress the importance of your church (or churches, home and uni!) being involved in your application and being available to offer prayer and pastoral support.
Latin Link Orientation
You are required to attend a compulsory Orientation weekend.
It’s residential, usually taking place just outside Reading, and the cost is included in your Launch Costs.
Missiological Training
You are also required to attend the All Nations Express Course to give you further cross-cultural missions training.
This is run twice a year, once in July and once in December. You can also complete this course online. The cost for the course is included in your Launch Fund.
During your placement
You’ll receive a local Orientation when you arrive in the country of your placement. You’ll be supervised by our Short-Term Coordinator, who will set up and Risk Assess your placement, and you’ll be assigned a Mentor for the duration of your time in Latin America
Debriefing
Upon return, you’ll be invited to have an individual Debrief of your time on Stride. You’ll also be invited to our annual Debrief Conference, held in November.
How to apply
Click here to download our application form. Complete it, save it to your computer and email it as an attachment to stride@latinlink.org.uk. If you have any questions before applying, please email stride@latinlink.org.uk.
