What are these awards all about?

The LIAs are funded through the New Zealand Government’s Growth and Innovation Framework. This framework supports the development of language skills considered necessary for New Zealand to move toward a globally-connected knowledge economy. The LIAs also support the Government’s economic, social and cultural goals.

What will I be doing during the six months?

You will develop written and oral fluency in your studied language and learn more about your host country and its culture(s). You will also become competent in intercultural communication as you will be interacting daily with people from other cultures. This will help you to develop a greater international awareness and put yourself into the shoes of someone from another culture.

Who is eligible for these awards?

To be eligible for an LIA you must:

• be at least 16-years-old on date of departure
• be studying one of the languages specified at years 11, or 12 during the year of application at school and/or the Correspondence School
• have the written endorsement of your language teacher/s and principal
• be currently learning the language at school, and/or the Correspondence School
• be a NZ citizen or have NZ residency (in accordance with Government funded programmes)

What criteria do I have to meet to apply?

You will be selected for a LIA on the following:

• reliability and flexibility
• open–mindedness and empathy with others
• ability to see yourself within a larger perspective
• self-confidence and willingness to take initiative
• tolerance and genuine interest in other people
• ability to ask for and receive assistance from others
• ability to establish positive relationships with other people
• desire to use the increased language and cultural skills in the future.
• willingness and ability to learn in a variety of educational settings
• ability to share your personal feelings and thoughts others
• have not spent recent lengthy periods in selected countries

When does the programme take place?

This six month experience will need to be undertaken either beginning in February-March or in July-August. The actual timing of the exchange will depend on the host country destination and the nature of its school year.

What will happen once I am there?

While on the LIA programme you will experience school and become a part of your “new” culture by living with a local family and developing an insight into their way of life. This will help you develop a deeper knowledge and respect for cultural differences. You will also participate in and/or experience social and cultural events and share something about NZ culture with your host family, school/s and community.

Are the LIAs free?

All costs of the programme, including travel, insurance and visas, etc are met by AFS although selected participants will be responsible for their personal spending money.

What will I be expected to do while in my host country?

You are expected to live with a host family and abide by the AFS behavioural rules. You are also expected to participate in all orientation processes offered and provide written reports to AFS New Zealand and the Ministry of Education during the experience and upon return as required. After the programme is over you will complete an evaluation and continue the experience by sharing your knowledge and skills within your school in New Zealand.

How do I apply for an LIA?

Applications for 2008 have closed. Please return to the AFS website in 2009. For further information or an application pack please contact 0800 600 300 or email prue.elwood@afs.org.