I’m Francesca, I’m 23 years old and I’m studying languages at the University of Venice. I’ve been an intern at EIL for three months, helping out by translating some programmes and itineraries into Chinese, Italian and making some worksheets about Spain, too. I'm going home now but I've really had a great time at EIL.  Everyone has been very kind and willing with me, I really enjoyed my time at the office and I learnt very much from them, they are a very valued team!

I think their job is very worthwhile, I met some young people about to leave with one of the programmes and they were so enthusiastic and exited that I felt delighted myself!!!

2011 is the year that EIL is celebrating the 75^th year of trading since it was established in the UK.

Over the years EIL has gone from simply arranging homestay accommodation to becoming a well-established organisation providing volunteering opportunities for people of all ages.

EIL is urgently seeking young people aged 18 - 30 for a 2 week work placement in Hungary this June at Debrecen University Botanic Gardens and surrounding National Park. The work includes habitat conservation, propagating and re-establishing rare plant species, and monitoring bird boxes. Cultural visits are also included. This trip is just one of the Leonardo da Vinci placements that EIL has to offer young people looking to combine foreign travel with work experience. Flights, accommodation, food, pocket money and an excellent support structure are all paid for. There is no need to speak the language as all placements have English speaking staff and language training is included. For more details please contact Lauran Jones on 01684 562577 or email her at l.jones@eiluk.org.