British Council Language Assistants – Details, episodes & analysis

This episode explores the foundation for understanding culture shock. Join the language assistants team with Saskia, Rand and Aobh as we dive into what culture shock is, the stages it involves, and why it’s such a universal experience for exchange students. We are joined also by George Wilson, the English and School Education Country Lead for British Council France. Through stories, expert insights, and practical examples, this episode will equip listeners with the knowledge to recognize and manage the emotional rollercoaster that often accompanies life abroad.

Finola chats to Ellie who was an ELA in Austria during 2020-21 about what is best to pack as a Language Assistant. Listen for top tips on what you really need to bring and what you can get when you're there. Don't forget to leave space for delicious goodies and some marmite if you're a fan!

With International Women's Day on 08 March, the Language Assistant podcast has carried out a special episode exploring gender within the programme itself and the British Council's work.  On this episode, Finola is joined by Ceana from the Language Assistants Team, Anna from the Gender and Inclusion Team and Dalia from British Council Mexico.

Some useful links from today's podcast:

Gender in Education: Inspiring the Future

British Council Gender Equality Resources

In this episode, Finola is joined by Renaud and Rhianna as they discuss life in Quebec. Featuring ski-doos, poutine and the topic of Canadian French, be sure to listen for all the top tips !

In this episode, Finola speaks to two former language assistants: Luke and Katrina about their experience in Austria. Both share their key top tips about life, admin and their experience...especially to keep your fridge stocked before Sunday!

In this episode, Bethan and Andrew from the British Council discussing the importance of and ways to wellbeing for Language Assistants, with helpful links and their own personal stories along the way.

As mentioned in the video:

- 5 Ways to Wellbeing

- Mind

In this episode, Finola speaks to three former language assistants - Jason, Clorrie and Isabel - about their experience as a language assistant in France. Starting with the typical week, they then discuss challenges and their adventures. From teaching the next generation of French chefs to having tea with a International Prize winning author! 

In this episode, Olivia is joined by Felicity and Emma who look back on their time as a language assistant in Italy. From delicious food to Romeo and Juliet, this podcast has lots of helpful tips and provides an insight into the experience of being an assistant in Italy. 

In this episode, Felicity gives the lowdown on eligibility criteria for China and Finola speaks to Jasper and Lorna - two former English Language Teachers in China. They talk about their experiences, the benefits and challenges of living in China as a teacher and share some invaluable top tips -  useful information for those considering applying! 

In this episode, Finola and Olivia look at the application process, how it works and what we are looking for in English Language Assistant candidates.