Applications for 2010 Now Closed     At this stage, all applicants should have received a response from the VP office team. Due to the large number of applications, sometimes we have problems with spam filters. If you have not received any response from us, please email vp@suas.ie or phone Laura/Suzanne on 01 6621412

For this year's programme we are seeking to recruit 6 teams of people who can work effectively with others to make a contribution to the staff and children of our Partner Schools during the overseas work placements.  In each team we are looking for diverse individuals: with a mix of backgrounds, disciplines, personalities and interests.  We are looking for those who lead from the front, as much as those with a more quiet potential.  Fundamentally, we are looking for people who are committed to serving others and who will continue to make a difference on their return and beyond - young people who will be the socially responsible leaders of the future.

We are looking for people who understand what the programme is about, the opportunities it presents, as well as the risks and challenges.  We are looking for people with upbeat attitudes, who appreciate the demands of the programme and who will be able to work through and learn from both the high points and the more challenging aspects of the programme.

Suas Volunteer Programme 2010 Key Dates

Programme Launch	16th November 2009
Application Deadline	21st December 2009
Interviews	January 2010
Final Selection of Teams	February 2010
Preparation Weekend I	5th - 7th March 2010
Preparation Weekend II	23rd - 25th April 2010
Fundraising Deadline	14th May 2010
Preparation Weekend III	28th - 30th May 2010
Overseas Departure	8th June 2010
End of Overseas Placement	20th August 2010
Return Weekend	25th - 27th  September 2010

Recruitment Process

The application process is competitive and on average we receive around 3 applications for every place that we can offer.  Ideally we would like to offer more places and we hope to expand the programme over the next 3 years. 

A successful application requires a combination of hard work and luck!  The application form can take upwards of two hours to complete.  We appreciate it when applicants invest time in the application and present their answers clearly.  As we will be selecting teams of participants for the programme, it is a question of not only fitting individuals to the programme but also to the placements and the teams that we ultimately select.  The key is to think about why the programme is right for you at this time, what you might gain from the opportunity and what you uniquely have to offer the Partner Organisations.

 

We run a three-step application process in order to recruit the teams:

1. Self-selection

a) Do you meet the programme requirements
b) Is the programme right for you?

2. Application & Shortlisting

3. Assessment Centre

Step 1: Self-selection

a) Programme requirements 

Essential Requirements:

Practical Requirements:

• At least one year out of secondary school (at time of departure overseas)
• Holder of a valid passport, or be able to get one prior to March 2010 and able to meet the visa requirements of India and Kenya
• Committed to raising the required sponsorship of €2995 for the programme by 14th May 2010 and to paying an inital deposit of €500 to secure their place by 26th February 2010
• Physically, mentally & emotionally fit to travel in the summer of 2010
• Willing to complete a Garda Vetting form
• Willing to abide by Suas Health, Safety & Security policies and procedures
• Willing to abide by Suas Child Protection Policy
• Prepared to get all recommended vaccinations & to take appropriate anti-malarial medication while overseas
• Available to attend all Preparation & Return Weekends and be available for the entire duration of the placement
• Willing to sign a Volunteer Contract agreeing to the terms and conditions of participation

b) Is the programme right for you?

The Suas Volunteer Programme is not for everyone.  It is a substantial under-taking and applicants will need to be sure that they feel it is the right kind if challenge for them at this point in their lives.  We encourage potential applicants to read the information on the website thoroughly, particularly the 'How to Apply' Guidelines, to attend a presentation at their nearest college or university and to speak with former participants to hear about their experiences on the programme both the highlights and the challenges.

Suas Volunteers generally have a well-rounded approach, combining commitment, determination, and a positive outlook together with patience, tact and diplomacy when required, as well having the ability to have fun and laugh at themselves.  Above all Suas Volunteers have the desire to make a difference in the world.

Step 2. Application & Short listing

• Download the application form
• Carefully complete it in Microsoft Word 1997-2003 format (if you don't have Microsoft Word, you can use the free alternative OpenOffice)
• Save it as firstname.secondname.date.doc (eg John.Smith.01Dec.doc) 
• Email it back as an attachment to vp@suas.ie by 21st December 2010.
  You will receive confirmation of receipt within two working days. 
• You are encouraged to apply early in order to give us maximum time to consider your application.

Step 3. Assessment Centre

Short listed candidates will be invited to a half-day Assessment Centre which will take place in January in Dublin. This will consist of an individual interview and a group exercise.  Former volunteers will also be present to answer any questions you might have on the programme.  Additional information on the Assessment process is contained in the 'How to Apply' Guidelines.  You will be notified by the first week of February on the outcome of your application.

We look forward to hearing from you.
Good Luck!

Laura Bennison
Suzanne Flood
Colman Farrell

Suas Volunteer Programme Team