Study Abroad Programmes With a Twist: How to Get Paid, Do Good, and Have Fun!

Study abroad programmes are an incredible opportunity to see the world from an exciting new angle, making great friends and amazing memories as you taste different cultures and customs. While traditional study abroad experiences involve spending most of your time in classrooms, other study abroad programmes bring a slightly different adventure to the table. 

At Further Travel, we have study abroad programmes that give you a chance to make a real impact on the communities you visit, in some of the most incredible corners of the world. Whether you’re cleaning up beaches in the Maldives, working at a wildlife reserve in South Africa, or teaching English to kids in Southeast Asia, FurtherTravelensures your study abroad experience is as fun and memorable as possible. 

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to our study abroad programmes and the different opportunities available. Join us as we explore: 

1. Why study abroad programmes are so valuable
2. The incredible experiences offered at Further Travel
3. What makes our study abroad experiences so unique 
4. How to apply to Further Travel’s study abroad programmes 

Read on to learn about the different FurtherTravelstudy abroad programs available, or if you are ready to join a study abroad programme, start by signing up here!

Why Is a Study Abroad Programme So Valuable?

Studying abroad can be about much more than attending classes in a foreign country. From personal growth to professional development, participating in a study abroad programme lets you travel with purpose and volunteer around the world, having a profound impact on your future. Some of the key reasons why embarking on a study abroad adventure is so valuable include:

1. Developing new skills
2. Seeing the world
3. Boosting your resume
4. Making a difference 

Let’s explore why millions of students choose to study abroad each year, in incredible destinations all around the world.

Develop New Skills

One of the most significant advantages of studying abroad is the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills beyond academic knowledge. Immersing yourself in a new cultural environment fosters adaptability, resilience, and intercultural skills. You’ll learn to navigate unfamiliar situations, communicate across language barriers, and embrace diverse perspectives. 

These experiences not only enhance your personal growth but also cultivate invaluable skills that are highly sought after by employers in almost every industry. With Further Travel’s unique study abroad programs, the types of skills that you can develop are even more diverse, including global wildlife conservation skills, teaching experience, and so much more. 

See the World 

Studying abroad provides students with the chance to explore new corners of the world, expanding their horizons beyond their home country. Whether it's wandering through historic streets in Vietnam, marveling at natural wonders, exploring Thailand’s party islands, or sampling new cuisines in South Africa, studying abroad offers a unique opportunity for cultural exploration and adventure. 

Experiencing life in a different country firsthand fosters a deeper understanding of global issues and cultivates empathy and tolerance towards different cultures and ways of life. Plus, seizing the opportunity to traverse the world as a young adult is important, as travel opportunities and extended holidays can become more difficult to coordinate as your career progresses. 

Boost Your Resume 

Participating in a study abroad programme can significantly enhance your resume and set you apart in a competitive job market. Employers value the skills and experiences gained through international education, recognising the initiative, independence, and cultural awareness it demonstrates. 

Whether you’re working with animal volunteer organisations or spending your summer teaching English in Thailand, studying abroad also provides opportunities for cross-cultural communication and networking, both of which are assets in today's interconnected world. A study abroad experience can be a compelling talking point in job interviews, and demonstrates your ability to thrive in new or diverse environments.

Make a Difference 

Many study abroad programmes offer opportunities for students to engage in meaningful community service or experiential learning projects. Whether it's volunteering with local organisations, participating in conservation efforts, or learning ways to be more environmentally friendly, you have a real chance to make a positive impact on the communities you visit. 

At Further Travel, we take this one step further by creating study abroad experiences that are focused on making a difference. As you’ll soon see, our study abroad programmes connect you with wildlife conservation organisations and local volunteering opportunities in communities around the world. Our itineraries give you plenty of opportunities to leave your study abroad destination just a little bit better than how you found it. 

How will you change the world? Join FurtherTravel to learn how you can make a difference! 

Experience Hands-On Study Abroad Programmes With Further Travel

When it comes to study abroad programmes, there's a world of opportunities beyond the traditional classroom setting. If you’re seeking immersive and hands-on experiences, these unique programmes offer a chance to make a tangible impact while exploring some of the most captivating destinations on the planet. Here’s a look at some of the sustainable travel opportunities available through Further Travel, including: 

1. Volunteering with elephants in Thailand
2. Discovering Bali’s delicate ecosystems
3. Teaching English across Asia
4. Working with kids in South Africa
5. Protecting stray dogs in Thailand
6. Saving stunning beaches in the Maldives
7. Immersing yourself in South African wildlife conservation
8. Helping communities in Vietnam and Cambodia

From volunteering with wildlife to engaging with local communities, each experience promises not only personal growth but also the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the world around you.

Volunteer with Elephants in Thailand 

Thailand's stunning, lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a popular destination for travellers worldwide. If you’re passionate about wildlife conservation, the country’s diverse ecosystems offer some incredible volunteer experiences, including the chance to visit an elephant sanctuary in Thailand and help provide care for these incredible creatures at a sanctuary.

With Further Travel’s Camp Thailand experiences, you’ll be feeding the elephants as you learn all about the plight of Thailand’s elephants and see first-hand how conservation efforts are making a difference to the future of these gentle giants. You’ll work with local conservation groups and learn some incredible elephant facts and discover the importance of ethical tourism practices for the future of Thailand’s elephants. 

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With less than 3,500 wild elephants left in Thailand, it’s more important than ever to do what we can to protect these precious creatures. FurtherTraveloffers several Camp Thailand itineraries, each providing a unique experience while focusing on elephant care and conservation. Choose from: 

• A 12-day adventure including time in Bangkok and trips to the best Thailand beaches
• A three-week ultimate adventure with the chance to live it up on Thailand’s beautiful islands
• A 20-day north discovery tour focused on the culture in Thailand’s north
• A 20-day island explorer tour with volunteer opportunities in local Thai schools

Although each itinerary offers a slightly different experience, all have a focus on wildlife conservation and give you the chance to learn about elephant behavior, conservation challenges, and how to minimise your impact as a traveller. Sound like the right adventure for you? 

Start your Camp Thailand application here!

Discover Bali’s Delicate Ecosystems

Bali, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush rainforests, is a paradise for nature lovers. Study abroad programmes here often focus on environmental conservation and sustainability, allowing you to explore the island's delicate ecosystems while learning about environmental issues like turtle conservation in Bali. 

From coral reef restoration to wildlife conservation projects and beach clean-ups to combat Bali’s plastic problem, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to preserving Bali's natural beauty while gaining invaluable insights into environmental issues facing the region. Further Travel’s Camp Bali itineraries offer different ways to aid conservation efforts and impact communities in Bali, including: 

• Volunteering with Balinese turtle conservation groups to help care for rehabilitated turtles 
• Helping out at a local special needs NGO to plan and supervise craft activities and other lessons

However you choose to make an impact in Bali, Further Travel’s Camp Bali itineraries are your first step to meaningful, purposeful travel. Get started here! 

Teach English Across Asia and Beyond

Teaching English abroad is a popular option for anyone looking to gain international experience while making a difference in the lives of others. Across Asia, study abroad programmes offer opportunities to teach English in schools and community centers. From bustling cities to rural villages, you can immerse yourself in local cultures while helping students improve their language skills and broaden their opportunities for the future.

FurtherTraveloffers several different English teaching experiences, including both short and longer-term teaching placements in a variety of locations and settings. Our opportunities include: 

• A paid, 7+ week summer teaching program in Thailand 
• A paid, 2+ month teaching placement with multiple locations available across Thailand 
• A 20-day ultimate impact tour of Bali with the chance to teach English at local schools 
• A 4-12 week sports coaching and English teaching camp in South Africa

When you’re not teaching, your FurtherTravelitinerary gives you the opportunity to participate in local cultural events, find the top foods to try in Thailand, explore beautiful beaches and forests, or just spend your time relaxing in some of the most stunning parts of the world. 

Working With Kids in South Africa

South Africa's diverse landscapes and vibrant culture provide an inspiring backdrop for study abroad programmes focused on education and community development. Further Travel’s Camp South Africa program gives you the chance to work with kids in South Africa for one to three months on a teaching placement. Focusing on sports coaching and English teaching, your itinerary includes: 

• An orientation into teaching and coaching in South African schools
• Visits to local townships to learn more about the local culture 
• English teaching placements from 8 am to 1 pm, Monday to Friday
• Or, sports coaching placements from 9 am to 2 pm, Monday to Friday 
• Free transfers to and from schools
• Opportunities to volunteer with preschool children from disadvantaged communities
• Group activities with other volunteers 

You’ll also have weekends to yourself, which you can spend getting to know your fellow volunteers or relaxing at camp. Enjoy a game of ping pong or pool at the bar, chill out in the swimming pool, or hit the beaches at Port Elizabeth to try surfing. FurtherTravelalso includes at least one specific weekend trip in your camp program itinerary, which may be: 

• An overnight trip to Jeffreys Bay, where the surf is always good
• A visit to Kragga Kamma Game Reserve
• A trip to Bloukrans Bridge (the world’s highest bridge bungee)
• A boat trip on the Sundays River with a BBQ 
• A traditional “Bushcamp” experience with dinner under the stars and African dance

You can also spend your time exploring Port Elizabeth–there’s a lot to see and do around you! To discover the incredible experiences available at Camp South Africa, start your application here! 

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Protect Stray Dogs in Thailand

Thailand's bustling cities and serene countryside are home to countless stray dogs in need of care and compassion. Study abroad programmes focused on animal welfare give you the chance to work with local organisations to provide medical treatment, shelter, and adoption services for stray dogs. 

With Further Travel’s 14-day Rescue Paws experience, you can spend two weeks tackling the stray dog epidemic in Thailand, while immersing yourself in Thai culture. Based on a beautiful beach in Hua Hin, you’ll spend your days feeding, exercising, and playing with the rescued dogs, as well as preparing them for adoption. 

Plus, you’ll have the chance to participate in an optional added activity, like a Thai cooking class or monk meditation session.

If you’re ready for a life-changing adventure with some grateful pups, start your application here! 

Save Stunning Beaches in the Maldives

The Maldives, with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a dream destination for many. However, the impact of tourism and climate change threatens the natural beauty of these islands. Study abroad programmes focused on marine conservation give you the opportunity to work on projects aimed at preserving coral reefs, protecting endangered species, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. 

Our 16-day Camp Maldives Tour introduces you to Save the Beach, a local organisation focused on protecting and preserving the incredible beauty of the Maldives. Over the course of your stay, you’ll learn about wildlife conservation volunteering and the challenges that tourism and coastal development have brought to these communities, and will have hands-on opportunities to protect these delicate ecosystems. Camp Maldives includes: 

• Educational visits to local communities to understand the importance of conservation
• Opportunities to snorkel with turtles and explore coral reefs
• Plenty of time to relax on the local beaches with your fellow travelers 
• Volunteer projects planting coconut palms and preserving sea grass
• An introduction to local, traditional, and sustainable fishing techniques 
• Time spent with the locals to dive into Maldivian culture first-hand 
• Beach clean-ups to protect marine life from plastic pollution

This unique, immersive experience is perfect for anyone looking to get a taste of conservation, explore a new culture, and still have time to relax on a beautiful beach with a good book in hand. 

Secure your spot here! 

Immerse Yourself in South African Wildlife Conservation

South Africa's diverse ecosystems are home to some of the most incredible wildlife species in the world, making the country a hotspot for conservation efforts and the perfect place to travel and volunteer abroad. Study abroad programmes in South Africa often focus on wildlife conservation, allowing you to work alongside conservationists in game reserves and national parks. 

Further Travel’s Camp South Africa Animal Conservation Program combines wildlife conservation, beautiful beaches, stunning safari landscapes, and plenty of fun activities. You’ll spend two weeks living and working at Kwantu Game Reserve with a group of volunteers and rangers. Days are spent rehabilitating habitats, monitoring and caring for rehabilitated animals, maintaining the reserve, and attending educational wildlife lectures. 

Work days typically run from 9-5, with evenings and weekends free for relaxing and enjoying the on-site amenities, including a games room, swimming pool, and tennis court. On the weekends, you’re free to explore nearby Port Elizabeth or world-class surf destination Jefferys Bay. There are plenty of optional activities you can also try, including skydiving! 

Ready for an adventure with Africa’s Big Five? Start your application here!  

Work With Local Communities in Vietnam and Cambodia

Vietnam and Cambodia, with their rich history and vibrant cultures, offer study abroad programmes focused on community development and social justice. Further Travel’s Camp Vietnam and Cambodia experience gives you the chance to spend three weeks exploring these incredible countries, with educational tours, hikes, and immersive day trips to soak up both the scenery and the culture on offer. 

Our student adventure travel experiences also include opportunities to make an impact in local Vietnamese and Cambodian communities, with river clean-up activities and plastic collection. Learn how to turn the plastic you’ve collected into eco-bricks, which are used to produce furniture, garden walls, and more. You’ll have the chance to turn river pollution into construction materials for schools, playgrounds, and more! 

Does a life-changing opportunity to impact local Vietnamese communities sound like a dream come true? Get started here! 

How to Apply for FurtherTravelStudy Abroad Programmes

If our hands-on, immersive experiences are the kind of study abroad experience you’re looking for, it’s time to secure your spot! Here’s what you need to do to start the global work and travel experience of a lifetime. 

1. Find your ideal study abroad programme
2. Sign up with FurtherTravel 
3. Secure your spot 
4. Prepare your documents 
5. Get ready for your adventure!

Find Your Ideal Study Abroad Programme

As you can see, FurtherTravel has a lot of different adventure travel volunteer programs to choose from! Take the time to read through our different itineraries to find the best option for you. Think about the duration, location, and type of experience you’re looking for, and factor in all the incredible, optional experiences you can add-on for a deeper taste of the culture you’re experiencing. 

Sign Up With FurtherTravel

Once you’ve found an experience that resonates with you, join the FurtherTravel family to start the adventure of a lifetime! The application process is pretty straightforward; we just need you to answer a few questions so we can learn a bit more about you. Then, our team will review your application and let you know whether or not you’re approved within 12 hours. 

Secure Your Spot

Once you’re in, you’ll need to secure your spot by paying a deposit. This will give you access to your trip portal, where you can find all the pre-departure information you need. If you have a specific question that isn’t answered there, you can reach out to our team any time for answers about our youth volunteer travel programs. 

Prepare Your Documents

You’ll need to spend some time making sure you have everything ready for your student travel program. In general, you’ll need to: 

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your travel dates
• Check whether a travel visa is required for your destination 
• Book your flights 
• Lock in your travel insurance 
• Submit a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check

FurtherTravel arranges DBS checks for UK nationals; you can organise this through your trip portal. We also have partners for flights and travel insurance–contact our team for a quote once your application is approved! 

Get Ready for Your Adventure!

Once all your documents are ready, you can view your trip portal for your itinerary, including details and information about your airport transfer. Then, it’s time to pack your backpack and get excited for the incredible experiences that lie ahead!

Experience Incredible Study Abroad Programmes with Further Travel

From protecting Thailand’s elephants to teaching kids in South Africa, FurtherTravelhas an incredible selection of study abroad programmes for adventurous travelers. With our convenient pre-planned itineraries, you can focus on having maximum impact on local communities and ecosystems as you travel and volunteer abroad. 

So, if you’re looking for a study abroad experience with a twist, check out what’s on offer at Further Travel. We can’t wait to see how you make a difference!

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