The Benefits Of Volunteering & Internships During School Holidays
Looking for something fun and meaningful to do this school holiday? What if you could gain real-life experience, meet incredible people, and make a difference all at the same time?
Sounds pretty amazing, right?
Well, that’s exactly what volunteering during school holidays and taking up an internship can offer you!
This blog dives into why these opportunities are a game-changer for South African students.
What is Volunteering?
Volunteering is all about giving your time and skills to help others without expecting any payment in return. It’s a simple yet powerful way to make a positive impact on the world around you.
Here are a few examples of common volunteer activities you could try during school holidays:
- Helping at animal shelters: Spend your days caring for adorable dogs, cats, and even wildlife in need of attention and love.
- Cleaning up parks or beaches: Join a team to restore natural spaces and make them beautiful again for everyone to enjoy.
- Working at a soup kitchen or food bank: Help prepare and serve food to those in need, or organise to keep shelves stocked.
What is an Internship?
An internship is like a sneak peek into the real world of work. It’s where you step into a professional environment, tackle real tasks, and pick up on-the-job skills that can set you up for success later in life.
Unlike volunteering, internships are often linked to specific fields or industries, giving you a taste of what it’s like to work in areas you’re interested in.
For example:
- If you want to become a lawyer, an internship at a law firm can give you insight into the legal profession.
- If you’re interested in marketing, an internship at a marketing agency can teach you about different advertising techniques and strategies.
- If you’re interested in tutoring children, you can become a tutor part-time and learn how to interact with children and teach them effectively.
Some internships are full-time, while others are part-time. They can also be paid or unpaid, depending on the company and industry.
The Benefits of Volunteering During School Holidays
Volunteering during school holidays is an opportunity to grow, explore, and make a real difference.
Here are some of the benefits of volunteering during school holidays:
1. Develop New Skills
Volunteering allows you to develop and sharpen valuable skills that you’ll carry with you throughout your life. You’ll practice communication by working with different people, teamwork by collaborating with others on projects, and time management as you balance tasks and responsibilities.
2. Make An Impact In Your Community
When you volunteer, you’re giving back to your community in meaningful ways. Whether it’s tutoring younger students, planting gardens, or serving meals at a soup kitchen, your efforts make a real difference.
3. Stand Out In Applications
Looking to apply for scholarships or future jobs? Volunteering gives your applications that extra edge. It shows schools, employers, or organisations that you’re proactive, committed, and willing to go the extra mile.
The Benefits Of Internships During School Holidays
Taking up an internship during school holidays is much more than just a way to keep busy. It’s a chance to grow, learn, and get a head start on your future career. Here are some of the benefits of internships during school holidays:
1. Get Hands-On Experience in Fields You’re Interested In
Internships are the perfect way to step into the professional world and see what it’s all about. You’ll get the chance to work on real tasks and explore what it’s like to be part of an industry that fascinates you.
2. Build Your CV Early
It’s never too soon to start building an impressive CV or résumé, and internships are an awesome addition! They show that you’ve taken the initiative to learn outside the classroom and have already started gaining practical experience.
3. Gain Clarity On Your Career Goals
Not sure what career you want to pursue? That’s okay! Internships are a fantastic way to try out different fields and see what works for you.
Volunteering Opportunities in SA for Students
If you’re ready to get involved and make a difference during your school holidays, there are tons of amazing volunteering opportunities in South Africa waiting for students just like you. Here’s a list of organisations and platforms to check out:
UNICEF South Africa Volunteer Programme
The UNICEF South Africa Volunteer Programme is a youth-driven initiative focusing on promoting children’s rights and creating social change.
Visit them here: UNICEF South Africa Volunteer Programme
International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ)
IVHQ offers a wide range of volunteer programs in South Africa, including teaching, childcare, marine conservation, and even sports development.
Visit them here: IVHQ South Africa
African Impact
This platform is perfect if you want to combine volunteering with adventure.
Visit them here: African Impact
GoECO
GoEco connects students with exciting volunteer programs across South Africa focusing on environmental work and community development.
Visit them here: GoEco South Africa Volunteer Programs
Internship Opportunities in SA for Students
South Africa has no shortage of internship opportunities, and the school holidays are the perfect time for students like you to jump in and gain valuable experience.
Here are some top platforms and organisations that can help you find the internship that’s right for you:
Go Overseas
Go Overseas offers a variety of accredited internship programs in South Africa that range from 2 to 24 weeks. You can gain professional experience in fields such as business, healthcare, or environmental conservation.
Explore them here: Go Overseas – South Africa Internships
Graduates24
While primarily aimed at recent graduates, Graduates24 also lists plenty of student-friendly internship programs across South Africa.
Explore opportunities here: Graduates24 Internship Programs
PNet
This platform offers an easy way to find internships in various sectors, including creative industries, hospitality, and more.
Explore a position here: PNet Internship Listings
LinkedIn has a dedicated job search section where you can find hundreds of internship opportunities across South Africa.
Start your search here: LinkedIn Internship Jobs – South Africa
Make This Holiday One to Remember
Volunteering during school holidays and exploring internship opportunities provides you with the chance to grow, connect, and make a meaningful difference. Start looking for volunteering opportunities or internships today and turn your school break into an adventure that could shape your future.
And while you’re keeping busy, don’t forget about staying ahead in school. At Tutor Doctor, we’re here to support your learning goals, even during the holidays.
Whether you want to catch up, get ahead, or prepare for the next term, we offer personalised tutoring services that fit your needs.
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