Mary worked as House Parent at Lord Wandsworth College. In this blog, she reflects on her experience working with English Study Camps in Hampshire.

Mary - House Parent at Lord Wandsworth College

How was your experience over the summer?

Busy! It was definitely a time of “be ready for anything” because you never knew what would come your way. It’s also very eye opening. There aren’t many places where you can integrate with so many nationalities in the UK for four weeks. I definitely found myself picking up new facts and words from places I had never been to.

What would you wish you would have known before starting work?

It could be hilarious good fun as well. The unpredictable nature of working with kids means that you can’t stress too much. As long as everyone is safe and happy, sometimes you have to laugh off the occasional thing that doesn’t go to plan.

How was your experience working with international students?

Rewarding. It definitely teaches you to be as patient as possible. If it takes them a while to explain something in English then it doesn’t matter if it makes you or them late for an activity. The fact they are trying to communicate in English is what matters, it’s why they’re there!

Did you have any experience working with under 18-year-olds prior to the start of the summer?

Yes, I had worked at a language school five years earlier but more recently, I had been a classroom assistant at a school in Spain where I helped students in Years 5 and 6, and also the sixth form. This definitely helped me with confidence especially when I was managing the girls all at once. It meant I could balance being an approachable but respected member of staff.

What are the top three things you enjoyed about the summer?

1. Getting to know the girls in my care. I could have a real laugh with them and also be there for them when they were upset and needed a chat.

2. The staff! I was fortunate enough to work with a very friendly bunch of people, some of whom I’m still in touch with and its great to be able to share some of the fun memories I have of WSE.

3. The grounds. Lord Wandsworth College has both a pretty campus and lovely surrounding areas. As a runner, it was perfect to be able to get out into the peace and quiet so easily with stunning views.

How did this job help you in your career?

It’s definitely helped me with confidence. At the language school you have to get to know staff very quickly especially if you’re managing the staff in your house. It meant that in my new job, I have thrown myself into getting to know my colleagues as quickly as possible which in turn has helped me to settle into my role more.

What advice would you give to staff who are starting with English Study Camps this coming summer?

Bring as much stuff as you can to help you feel at home, be it snacks or extra pillows. It’s very much a boarding school life style even for staff and its not always easy to pop out and get extra supplies!

Also, try to communicate as clearly as possible to the students – we can’t expect a child to automatically know what you mean if its not their native language. If you’re not sure how something is supposed to be run, then they definitely won’t know what’s happening!