Question 1

What languages do your teachers speak?

Accepted Answer

Most of them speak English, some of them German and French. Bilingual teachers are available for beginners and basic levels, but for intermediate to advanced students  only Spanish is used. In any case most of the class will be in Spanish from the beginning.

Question 2

How much time do I need to become fluent in Spanish?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the effort that a student invests in learning Spanish. Our experience shows that a person who does not speak any Spanish, with a 40-hour course can manage basic communication in Spanish, for example he or she will be able to buy things and to request basic information in Spanish.  To become fluent maybe you need to study at least 6 months if you don´t have any knowledge of the language.

Question 3

Is there a minimum or maximum age for enrollment?

Accepted Answer

No - students of all  ages are welcome. We have had students from 3  to 75 years old.

Question 4

Are group lessons available?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes we have group lessons, for students that come together, or who  speak the same language and have the same level in Spanish.  Group lessons are for beginners to intermediate.  For advance students we only offer one to one lessons.

Question 5

When can I start my course?

Accepted Answer

You can start one to one Spanish lessons any day of the week, not necessarily on a Monday, but you should book in  advance to ensure that teachers are available.

Question 6

What if I don't speak any Spanish?

Accepted Answer

Don`t worry.  We usually have students that have never had contact with  Spanish before,  our texts books are designed for complete beginners  and our teachers have lot of experience in teaching complete beginners.

Question 7

Can I study for a few weeks, then take a break, and then continue for another couple of weeks?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is possible, but when you return you might not have the same teachers, you will work with the teachers that are available at the moment.

Question 8

Do the teachers give homework?

Accepted Answer

Yes - they always give you homework or they request you to review what you have studied that  day. It is important that you do this, so you can progress faster and the teacher can  teach you more.

Question 9

What are the class schedules?

Accepted Answer

The normal schedule is  from  Monday to Friday from 8.30 to 12.30 or from 9:00 to 01:00 during the rainy season. 
For students who want flexible schedules, the lessons are in the afternoon starting at 1:00 p.m.
Also, for students who request it, we can arrange classes weekends.

Question 10

What do you recommend, group or one on one  lessons?"

Accepted Answer

We always recommend one to one lessons, because your teacher will  focus on your specific needs and you can reach your personal goals.   
In groups normally some students progress faster than others which causes frustration in both the less able, who feel left behind, and more able students, who become impatient.
On the other hand, group lessons are great for friends that come together and support each other in learning Spanish.

Question 11

Can I change my program after enrollment?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the  kind of change.  For example, if you wish to take more hours we can usually arrange that. However, if you wish  to reduce your number of hours, you will only be able to do this after the first week, because teachers’ schedules  are planned for the whole week bearing in mind your booking.

Question 12

Do I work with only one teacher for 4 hours?

Accepted Answer

No, usually when  students take 4 or more hours per day, they work with two different teachers, changing after two hours. You will  you keep the same teachers for the whole course unless  you request a  change.

Question 13

Do your teachers have university degrees?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our teachers have University Degrees, most of them in Education and some in Language and Linguistics. Some of them have a Diploma in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language.

Question 14

Do your teachers work on public holidays?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but we don’t work at Christmas and New Year.  If you miss lessons because of these holidays we will reschedule them.

Question 15

Do I need to bring any study materials with me?

Accepted Answer

The school will provide all your study materials, but if you could  bring a good dictionary, a notebook and a pen.

Question 16

If I'm a complete beginner, what can I learn in one week?"

Accepted Answer

The articles, the verb to be, the most used adverbs, adjectives and nouns in Spanish, how to ask questions, how to answer them, useful information for buying tickets, booking hostels, buying clothes, etc. In terms of grammar your will learn the present tense, present perfect and going to.  In short a  survival course which is enough for travelling around

Question 17

Beginner

Accepted Answer

For those with no background in Spanish; or those who have travelled, studied a little or have some vocabulary, but struggle to form sentences. This level covers: basic vocabulary (adjectives, numbers, colors, foods, parts of the body, etc.) and basic grammar (nouns, articles, gender, present tense, simple ways to express past and future). When you finish this level you will be able to understand and use basic every day expressions. You will have the tools to introduce yourself and others; to ask and answer questions about personal details such as where you live, people you know and what you like to do. You will be able to interact in a basic way when the other person talks slowly and clearly.

Question 18

Intermediate I & II

Accepted Answer

Intended for those who have completed the Pre-Intermediate Level or have studied Spanish before and have developed intermediate competence in oral and written comprehension / expression. In these levels you will learn or revise reflexive verbs, direct and indirect objects, preterite vs. imperfect past tenses, pluperfect and future perfect tenses. You will improve your vocabulary by reading articles about religion, culture, history, politics, etc.   When you finish this level you will be able to participate in and understand the main points of conversations encountered whilst travelling, working or studying, etc. You will also be able to describe experiences, opinions, events, dreams, hopes, ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations.

Question 19

Basic I & Basic II

Accepted Answer

Intended for those who have completed the Beginner Level or who already have knowledge of basic vocabulary, grammar, present/simple past and future verb tenses; and who understand basic conversational Spanish. In this course you will lean more irregular verbs in all tenses, reinforce your understanding of basic verbs, and learn prepositions and new vocabulary. Through classes you will be encouraged to practice your Spanish speaking.   After completing this level, you should be able to take part in a variety of simple conversations using basic structures and vocabulary with acceptable accuracy. You should also be able to understand simple conversations when conducted slowly and clearly.

Question 20

Upper intermediate

Accepted Answer

Intended for those who have completed the Intermediate levels or have studied Spanish before and have developed upper intermediate competence in oral and written comprehension / expression and wish to increase their vocabulary, fluency and ability to use higher level grammatical structures. This level covers the subjunctive tenses and the passive voice. Grammar will be continually reviewed and reinforced. Speaking, pronunciation, and vocabulary will be improved. More idiomatic and colloquial expressions will be studied.   When you finish this level, you will be able to use a wide range of structures with a high degree of accuracy. Some "typical" errors may still occur, but the student should have good overall comprehension and a wide vocabulary.

Question 21

Advanced I, II, III & IV"

Accepted Answer

To be considered at this level you have to be able to understand the main ideas of complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in your field of specialization. At this level you will be able to interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity with native speakers. You will be able to produce clear, detailed texts on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on important issues giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options. Students develop an advanced level of competence in oral and written comprehension/expression of Spanish.   These levels cover: the use of the subjuctive, conditional, pluperfect and the passive voice. Grammar will be continually reviewed and reinforced. Speaking, pronunciation, and vocabulary will not be neglected.   Students who finish this level can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. They can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. In addition they can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. They can also produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices. You will develop native-like abilities, this means that you can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. You will also be able to summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. You also have to be able to express yourself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

Question 22

Pre-intermediate

Accepted Answer

Intended for those who have completed Basic I and Basic II or have studied Spanish before and need to refresh thier vocabulary and knowledge of grammar.   In this level you will cover reflexive verbs, past tenses will be studied more deeply, and speaking and vocabulary will be emphasized.   When you finish this level you will be able to understand sentences and frequently used expressions (for example: those used to talk about personal information, shopping, requests, etc). You will also be able to talk about simple and routine tasks.

Question 23

How do I book a Spanish course and accommodation?

Accepted Answer

You only need to send us the enrollment form plus the enrollment fee, when we receive this you will get a reply from us.  If you don’t hear for us, please let us know maybe our mail didn’t  reach your mailbox.

Question 24

Can I extend my course and accommodation?

Accepted Answer

Of course you can. Only let us know in advance, so we can make all the necessary arrangements.

Question 25

How can I pay the Spanish lessons and the accommodation?

Accepted Answer

You must pay the first week of lessons during the first two course days at the school and the next weeks at the beginning of each week. We only accept cash and the payments must be in American dollars or soles.

Question 26

How far in advance should I book my course and/or accommodation?

Accepted Answer

We prefer at least two weeks in advance, but also you can often come to the school and fix a date for your lessons and find accommodation only a couple of days in advance.

Question 27

Are there any other fees apart from the costs for the Spanish lessons  and accommodation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you have to pay 20 dollars registration fee  when you send us your enrolment form via paypal.

Question 28

Are there ATM machines in Arequipa?

Accepted Answer

There are several ATM machines in Arequipa, there are plenty in the shopping centers and banks located  few blocks from  the school.

Question 29

How can I buy a flight ticket to Arequipa?

Accepted Answer

You can buy one online.  Check these web sites:
www.latam.com
www.peruvianairlines.pe
www.avianca.com www.lcperu.pe

Question 30

Can you arrange a pick up service from the airport in Lima?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have a taxi driver that works with us who can pick you up from the airport in Lima. He can also take you to a hotel in Lima, pick you the next day from the hotel and take you to the airport or bus station.  If necessary he can help you to buy a bus ticket to Arequipa.

Question 31

What can I expect in the airport in Arequipa?

Accepted Answer

The airport in Arequipa is very small. Once you leave  the plane,  collect your luggage,  go through the  lobby and leave the building. Outside the lobby there will be a representative from our school with a sign with your name on, waiting  to take you to your accommodation. If you do not see anyone, please wait another 15 minutes and then call to the school 959910196.

Question 32

Can the school pick me up if I arrive by bus?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you have to call  us when you arrive  in Arequipa and it will take us 30 minutes to get there,  because buses are usually not on time. If you don’t want to wait, you can take a taxi inside  the bus station car park,  these taxis are safe.  They will charge you around 12  - 15 soles to take you to the school or your home stay.

Question 33

Will I need a visa to enter to Peru?

Accepted Answer

Visas are not required for citizens  of most countries (check with the Peruvian embassy in your home country). The tourist visa you will get when entering Peru will allow you to stay for 90 days in Peru. You can then go to the immigration department in most cities and get an extension. You are allowed a maximum of three 30-day extensions, which would give you a total of  180 days (6 months) in Peru. However, it is easier to cross a border which guarantees you 90 more days. From Arequipa you can go to Chile or Bolivia which takes about 7 hours.

Question 34

How is the bus trip from Lima to Arequipa?

Accepted Answer

The trip last around 16 hours if the bus is on time. The majority of the trip is along the coast on  the Panamerican highway which is fine. There are very different levels of service depending on the price. Buses depart about every half an hour from Lima, but it is better if you take an overnight bus which leaves in the afternoon, so you will arrive in Arequipa early in the morning.  We recommend that you  choose a special service that  doesn’t make any stops on the way like Cruz del Sur or Oltursa.  If you choose an economical class, your trip can last between 18 and 20 hours and is not much fun.

Question 35

Educational centers

Accepted Answer

In educational centers, from April to December, mainly with young primary school students aged from 4 to 9. In these institutions volunteers can, in coordination with the school director, prepare workshops of reading, theater, art etc. These workshops should educate children in the importance of good nutrition, health care and protecting the environment. They should also reaffirm moral values such as honesty, honor and punctuality. Finally, volunteers can organize the psychological consultations of the centers or if suitably qualified provide this service.

Question 36

Children's home

Accepted Answer

This Institution provides accomodation and takes care of children who are at risk, have been abandoned, or have lost their parents.  Volunteers  prepare children for school and help them when they return. This involves playing with the children and helping them to do their homework (painting, drawing etc). Volunteers can also assist in taking care of  babies, helping to prepare their food, for example. They can also help in general cleaning or in the laundry etc. The work schedule is from  9 a.m.to 5 p.m. Help is especially appreciated  on weekends.

Question 37

Rehabilitation Center

Accepted Answer

In rehabilitation centers for physically challenged children such as the Sacred Family Integrated Institution for the Disabled, run by Dr. Maria Luz Barreda. In this institution volunteers join a group of professionals who are involved in the rehabilitation of children. They also give counseling to their families to help them accept and adapt to their situation. Volunteers can organize social pedagogic and psychology workshops for parents or university students.

Question 38

The Girl's Home

Accepted Answer

The Girl's Home is a Christian/Jewish organisation which aims to provide a family environment where the girls they care for can heal and grow. They also supply education, medical, dental and vision care. Although it is run by an American Priest, they employ many locals and also employ the girls who have grown up in the home after they are of leaving age (if the girls wish to stay on).   The Girl´s Home are flexible in how volunteers work. Their greatest need is homework help, for which a good standard of Spanish is required, but there are many other tasks that need to be completed. Volunteers are welcome to come and roll up their sleeves and help with anything that presents itself on a day to day basis!

Question 39

Senior care center

Accepted Answer

This is a senior living home, with professional staff and and volunteers dedicated to provide care, companionship and permanent attention to elderly women. Currently, there are 45 female residents, whom have been abandoned in the streets or have been abused or neglected by their family. Although the local staff do all they can to care, provide food and love, there is such a need for more help!   Volunteers help to clean the bedrooms and the house, washing clothes, help in the kitchen, feed the elderly women, spend time and play games with them.  Also, give them the medicines, heal their lesions, cut their hair (if you can do it) and accompany them to the hospital.

Question 40

Peruvian Hipotherapy Association

Accepted Answer

This association has provided rehabilitation using horse riding as therapy since 2004. At the moment, 60 patients are participating in equine therapy, the majority of whom are poor physically challenged young people. The voluntary work involves accompanying a therapist during the sessions to look after the patients. Each session lasts approximately 45 minutes and volunteers can work as long as they wish (Monday to Saturday). No experience in horse riding nor physical rehabilitation is required.

Question 41

Cuna Jardin (nursery)

Accepted Answer

This institution helps the Zamácola community by taking care of  children so that their parents can work. It provides an all round service (education, feeding, care and guidance) to children from 2 to around 12 years old. Volunteers have the opportunity to help to look after the babies; join the team of teachers and  help in classes, or workshops (art, theater,sport etc). In the school library, especially in the afternoon (from  2.00 to 6.30), they can help students with their homework and motivate them to read.

Question 42

I am a vegetarian, is that a problem if I want to stay with a host family?"

Accepted Answer

This  isn`t a problem , our host families have experience with the preparation of vegetarian meals. Also, if you have other dietary restrictions or allergies, just let us know in advance.

Question 43

Does the accommodation include hot water?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all provide hot water. 
The host family will show how to use the shower. They will indicate when hot water is available. If there is any problem the student should inform the school.

Question 44

If I miss meals will I get a refund?

Accepted Answer

No, you don’t get a refund if you miss meals.

Question 45

What meals are included in the half-board option?

Accepted Answer

Breakfast and one meal, either lunch or dinner.  Some families are willing to prepare you lunch one day or dinner another day depending on your schedule.  But it is better if you choose lunch, because you can join the other students for dinner downtown.

Question 46

How far from the school do the host families live?

Accepted Answer

The host families live in different areas of  Arequipa. Most of them are located in the Cayma and Cerro Colorado district near the school,  the  walking distance from the school is from 10 to 30 minutes. There is a lot of cheap pubic transport available to the city center and  the school. A taxi fare costs 6 or 7 soles (around US$ 1.85) and a bus fare 1 soles  (US$ 0.30)

Question 47

Can a whole family stay with a local family?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the size of the family, we have space for a family of 4 in two double rooms

Question 48

If  I arrive in Arequipa  during the week , where can I stay?"

Accepted Answer

You can stay with the family from  the day that you arrive, you don´t need to wait until Sunday and you can stay there as many days as you want, but it is important to inform the school how many days you will probably stay there so we know when the homestay will be available for new students.

Question 49

Can we share a double room as a couple?

Accepted Answer

Yes,, of course!

Question 50

Can I share a double room with a student from the school?

Accepted Answer

No, double rooms are available only for couples or for two students that come together.

Question 51

Can I get details about my host family in advance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we usually assign the host family to each student  two weeks before their arrival, we send the student the address of the family with  information about the family members and a picture of the family.
Upon request, we can send the student   details of the  host family earlier, but placements can change at the last minute.

Question 52

Shall I take a gift for my host family?

Accepted Answer

You do not have to but it is a nice idea to bring a souvenir from your city.  Also, wine and chocolates are greatly appreciated.

Question 53

Should I pay the host family directly?

Accepted Answer

No, all the payments are made through the school. The families and the school have an agreement that all the payments including extra days are made through the school even if you have already finished your Spanish lessons.

Question 54

Can I change my homestay if I am dissatisfied?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can change the homestay immediately. You don`t need to spend  a whole week in the homestay, if you want you can go to another family or move into a hostal.

Question 55

Can I use the kitchen if I stay with a family?

Accepted Answer

Only  some families will allow  students to use their kitchen to prepare their own meals paying extra money. You can choose another option for example staying in the school building or renting a whole apartment.

Question 56

If I travel for some days do I get a refund for the days that  I don’t spend in the house?

Accepted Answer

No, you don’t get a refund if you don’t spend any days in the house.  But if you leave the house for more than 7 days, you can keep the room paying only for the room, not for the meals. If you don’t want to pay for the room you can leave your things in the school or isomewhere else and after you return we can find another family for you if the  previous family isn´t available.

Question 57

Intermedio alto

Accepted Answer

Destinado a aquellos que han completado los niveles intermedios o han estudiado español anteriormente y que han desarrollado una competencia de nivel intermedio alto en comprensión / expresión oral y escrita y desean aumentar su vocabulario, fluidez y capacidad para usar estructuras gramaticales de alto nivel. Este nivel cubre: los tiempos verbales subjuntivos y la voz pasiva. La gramática será continuamente revisada y reforzada. Se mejorará la conversación, la pronunciación y el vocabulario. Se estudiarán expresiones más idiomáticas y coloquiales.   Cuando un estudiante termina este nivel, podrá usar una amplia gama de estructuras con un alto grado de precisión. Algunos errores "típicos" todavía pueden ocurrir, pero el alumno debe tener una buena comprensión general y un amplio vocabulario.

Question 58

Avanzado I, II, III y IV"

Accepted Answer

Para ser considerado a este nivel, debe ser capaz de comprender las ideas principales de los textos complejos sobre temas concretos y abstractos, incluidas las discusiones técnicas en su campo de especialización. En este nivel, podrás interactuar con un grado de fluidez y espontaneidad con hablantes nativos. Podrás producir textos claros y detallados sobre una amplia variedad  de temas y explicar un punto de vista sobre cuestiones importantes que ofrezcan las ventajas y desventajas de varias opciones. Los estudiantes desarrollan un nivel avanzado de competencia en la comprensión / expresión oral y escrita del español. Estos niveles cubren: el uso del subjuntivo, condicional, pluscuamperpecto  y  voz pasiva. La gramática será continuamente revisada y reforzada. No se descuidará la pronunciación, la pronunciación y el vocabulario. Los estudiantes que terminan este nivel pueden comprender una amplia variedad de textos exigentes y extensos y reconocer el significado implícito. Pueden expresarse con fluidez y espontaneidad sin mucha búsqueda evidente de expresiones. Además, pueden usar el lenguaje de manera flexible y efectiva para fines sociales, académicos y profesionales. También pueden producir textos claros, bien estructurados y detallados sobre temas complejos, que muestran el uso controlado de patrones organizacionales, conectores y dispositivos cohesivos. Desarrollarás habilidades nativas, esto significa que puedes entender con facilidad prácticamente todo lo que escuchas o lees. También puede resumir información de diferentes fuentes orales y escritas, reconstruyendo argumentos e historias en una presentación coherente.

Question 59

Intermedio I y II

Accepted Answer

Dirigido a aquellos que han completado el nivel preintermedio o que han estudiado español antes y han desarrollado una competencia intermedia en la comprensión / expresión oral y escrita. En estos niveles se aprenderá o se revisarán los verbos reflexivos, objetos, pasado indefinido, pasado imperfecto, diferencias entre los pasados, pasados pluscuamplerfecto, objetos y futuro imperfecto.  También, los estudiantes mejorarán su vocabulario leyendo artículos sobre historia, cultura, religión, política, etc. Al finalizar estos niveles el estudiante podrá participar y comprender los principales temas de las conversaciones mientras viaja, trabaja o estudia, etc. Además, podrá describir experiencias, opiniones, eventos, sueños, esperanzas, ambiciones y  dar razones y explicaciones.

Question 60

Principiante

Accepted Answer

Dirigido a aquellas personas que nunca han estudiado español o para  aquellos que han viajado, estudiado un poco o conocen algunas palabras, pero tienen dificultad en  formar oraciones. Este nivel cubre: vocabulario básico (adjetivos, números, colores, alimentos, partes del cuerpo, etc.) y gramática básica (sustantivos, artículos, género, tiempo presente, formas simples de expresar el pasado y el futuro).   Al finalizar este nivel usted podrá comprender y utilizar expresiones y frases cotidianas básicas. Usted  podrá presentarse a otras personas,  hacer y responder preguntas sobre detalles personales, como dónde vive, personas que conoce y cosas que hace. También, podrá interactuar de manera simple cuando la otra persona hable lenta y claramente.

Question 61

Pre-intermedio

Accepted Answer

Dirigido a aquellos que han completado los niveles básico I y básico II  o que han estudiado español antes y necesitan actualizar su vocabulario y conocimiento de gramática. En este nivel se aprenderán los verbos reflexivos; los tiempos pasados se estudiarán con más detenimiento; la conversación y adquisición de vocabulario serán una prioridad. El  estudiante que completa el nivel pre intermedio puede entender oraciones y expresiones de uso frecuente (por ejemplo: expresiones  utilizadas para hablar sobre información personal, compras, requerimientos, etc.).  También puede comunicarse en casos simples y rutinario.

Question 62

Basico I y II

Accepted Answer

Dirigido a aquellos que han completado el nivel principiante o que ya tienen conocimientos de vocabulario básico, gramática, presente, tiempos pasados más usados, gerundios y futuro idiomático; y que entienden español conversacional básico.  En este nivel usted aprenderá  más verbos irregulares en todos los tiempos, preposiciones, se reforzarán el aprendizaje de los verbos, se introducirá más vocabulario, y se motivara al estudiante para hablar en español. Después de completar estos niveles, el estudiante deberá ser capaz de participar en una variedad de conversaciones simples usando estructuras básicas y vocabulario con una precisión aceptable y deberá ser capaz de entender conversaciones simples cuando se realizan de forma lenta y clara.

Question 63

Asociación Peruana de Hipoterapia

Accepted Answer

Esta es una Asociación que brinda desde el 2004 un servicio de rehabilitación a través de la terapia con el caballo. Actualmente, 60 pacientes participan de la equinoterapia, en su mayoría son niños discapacitados de bajos recursos económicos.  El trabajo voluntario consiste en acompañar al terapeuta durante la sesión para asegurar el bienestar del paciente. La sesión dura aproximadamente 45 minutos y el voluntario puede trabajar el número de horas que desee de lunes a sábado.   No se necesita experiencia en equitación ni tener estudios de rehabilitación física.

Question 64

Casa Hogar para Niñas

Accepted Answer

La casa hogar para niñas es una organización cristiana/judía que tiene por objetivo darles a    las niñas un ambiente familiar apropiado en el que puedan reponerse y crecer. Brindan a las niñas servicios como educación, salud, cuidado dental y cuidado de la vista. A pesar de ser dirigido por un sacerdote americano, muchos de sus trabajadores son locales e incluso algunas son chicas que crecieron allí pero que decidieron quedarse (es su decisión propia).  El hogar de niñas brinda flexibilidad en cuanto al trabajo de los voluntarios. La principal necesidad es ayudar con la tarea, para lo cual se requiere un buen nivel de español, pero existen muchas otras tareas que también requieren ayuda. Los voluntarios son bienvenidos a venir y ayudar con cualquier cosa que se presente en el día a día.

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