Applications have opened for the chance to teach Welsh 7,000 miles away in Patagonia, Argentina.
The British Council has launched its open call for two Welsh teachers or tutors to take part in their Welsh Language Project, which aims to help promote and develop the Welsh language across the region.
It is seeking two confident, adaptable and self-motivated educators with experience of teaching Welsh to spend February – December 2027 living and working in Patagonia. They will teach Welsh as a second language to children of all ages and adults.
Established in 1997, the Welsh Language Project sends teachers from Wales each year to the Y Wladfa – the Welsh settlements in Patagonia – to spend ten months teaching in the towns of Trelew, Trevelin, and Gaiman.
In Patagonia it's estimated at least 5,000 people still speak Welsh, among 50,000 Patagonians of Welsh descent. This cultural landscape was shaped by 19th century Welsh settlers, who created a permanent settlement in the Chubut Valley in 1865. At that time, many older residents still spoke Welsh as their first language.
Welsh Language Project Teaching Co-ordinator, Clare Vaughan, said:
“During my time on the Welsh Language Project I have met descendants of the first settlers – proud Argentinians, with a passion for Wales – alongside incomers to the province, intrigued by the ancient Welsh language. The students have ranged from three to 83 years old, and we have learned, cooked, sung and participated in Eisteddfodau together – sometimes only the Spanish-sounding vowels reminded me I was in South America. It was all more incredible than I could have imagined and I fell in love with the huge landscapes, the tiny towns and the warm welcome, which made me feel part of the community.
“The experience of teaching Welsh in a fresh, new environment helped me develop skills I didn't know I had. It encourages you to expand your horizons and see Welsh language and culture from a whole new perspective. Send in an application – it could change your life.”
Alongside traditional classes, the teachers will also play a key role in expanding Welsh language within the community by organising and leading social and cultural activities and acting as an ambassador for the Welsh language and its culture.
Applications remain open until 7 September 2026 and the successful applicants will receive £750 per month, in addition to return flights, free accommodation and health insurance.
Ruth Cocks, Director, British Council Wales, said:
“For almost 30 years, the Welsh Language Project has strengthened the unique cultural and linguistic ties between Wales and Patagonia. Thanks to the long-standing support and warm welcome of partners and communities in Argentina, the programme continues to have a lasting impact on both Welsh-speaking communities and the teachers who take part.
“This unique opportunity is perfect for Welsh teachers who are passionate about our language and culture and keen to share that enthusiasm with Welsh language communities across the Patagonian region. It offers an exciting adventure in cultural exchange, professional development and the chance to be part of a remarkable shared heritage.”
The Welsh Language Project echoes the British Council's wider work, building connection, understanding and trust between people in the UK and other countries through arts, education and language teaching.
To find out more about the Welsh Language Project and eligibility criteria visit: https://wales.britishcouncil.org/en/programmes/education/welsh-language-project
