What’s it like being an auxiliar de conversación in Spain? We spoke to four Kiwis to find out. Check out what our four Kiwis living in Spain have to say about their experiences as English Language and Culture Assistants.
Natasha, 24 – Auxiliar de Conversación
What made you decide to become a language assistant (auxiliar de conversación) in Spain?
I just wanted to travel Europe, but by working in one country I would be able to get more of a cultural experience as well. So I picked this job as it was part time with a 3 day weekend so I get to live here but also travel a lot.
What was the process for you? How long did it take?
Applications open on the Profex website early February. As long as you meet the minimum requirements you can apply and I recommend applying as early as possible to get the regional placement you want.
Do you have any previous teaching qualifications or experience?
I have absolutely no prior teaching experience or qualifications.
What is the best part of the job?
The best part of the job is you really get to understand Spanish culture more by just seeing how the students and teachers interact everyday. Also getting to teach about your culture/country is pretty cool.
Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to become a language assistant?
Before you apply you should absolutely join the ‘Auxiliares de Conversación en Madrid’ and Auxiliares de Conversación en España Facebook page. The information on there is invaluable. Also, everyone says it, but learn Spanish! You can absolutely survive without it, but if you want to thrive living here it will be smart to learn it. Can also come 1 month earlier to do a Spanish intensive course.
Kajol, 24 – Auxiliar de Conversación
What made you decide to become a language assistant (auxiliar de conversación) in Spain?
I had just come out of my law and commerce degree and was completely burnt out. I knew I wanted to take some time off, and funnily enough I saw a TikTok about the Aux Program. I studied Spanish in high school and saw how easy it was to apply to the Aux Program so it was a no brainer for me!
What was the process for you? How long did it take?
The process was pretty straight forward as a Kiwi. Thankfully our background checks and other documents can all be obtained online so it wasn’t as much of a mission as Auxes from other places. The biggest issue was the actual application as the website used is quite old! I would say after my acceptance it took about two months to get my visa sorted!
What is the best part of the job?
The hours and location! Coming from NZ, it is so amazing to just have to work 16 hours and be able to maximise our time in Europe to see as much as we can!
What is something that you didn’t expect to learn/gain from this experience?
I’ve learned that a lot of things are truly out of your control, and you really need to just let things happen and in the end everything that’s meant to be will be!
Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to become a language assistant?
Do it! Such an incredible experience. Make sure you try and brush up on your Spanish skills, and truly connect with anyone you can! The support I got from my now closest friends has been invaluable, especially during the early times when we were trying to desperately find housing and nothing seemed to be going right!
Wai, 25 – Auxiliar de Conversación
What made you decide to become a language assistant (auxiliar de conversación) in Spain?
When I was studying at university we had people from the Spanish Embassy come and talk to us about the opportunity to go to Spain and participate in a language assistant program. I decided to participate as I thought it would be a great opportunity to visit Spain and improve my Spanish.
Do you have any previous teaching qualifications or experience?
I studied at the University of Waikato doing a double major in Business and Linguistics- specialising in Spanish. I have begun my diploma in teaching but will continue and complete my studies back in NZ.
How long have you been a language assistant for?
This is my second year as a language assistant and I will be continuing the program this coming year.
What is the best part of the job?
I think the best part of the job is working with the kids and getting to see them develop.
What is something that you didn’t expect to learn/gain from this experience?
I think one of the best learning experience I have gained from this program is learning how to adapt quickly to different situations.
Chilayne, 35 – Auxiliar de Conversación
What made you decide to become a language assistant (auxiliar de conversación) in Spain?
I wanted to learn more Spanish, so what better way to do that than to move to Spain! I also appreciate how challenging it can be to learn a new language, so I wanted to give back and help students in Spain learn English.
What was the process for you? How long did it take?
Even though I left my application until the last minute, the process was relatively easy. There was quite a bit of paperwork to work through though. So, in retrospect, I recommend applying early to save some stress (do as I say, not as I do). The initial application via PROFEX is open for a couple of months, and then getting your visa sorted can take some months also, so get onto it ASAP!
What is the best part of the job?
Seeing your students ‘click’ and understand what you have just taught them. It makes the work you do feel rewarding. My students also actively include me in playtime/lunchtime activities like football, basketball, infectado (a game like tiggy/tag), so they must like me a little bit. They like teaching me Spanish too which is helpful.
Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to become a language assistant?
Just do it – it’ll be one of the most memorable experiences of your life! Take pause and give yourself the opportunity to do something new and different.
Auxiliares de Conversación in Spain Facebook groups
Auxiliares de Conversación in Spain PROFEX website
Message Zoe if you would like to make contact with one of the Kiwis above to learn more.
