Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of people with refugee status and those seeking asylum here in south west London? Consider joining our team at Refugee Action Kingston. We are always looking for dedicated individuals who share our values. We are a small, friendly team, driven by a passion to create positive and lasting change in our community.

Why volunteer with RAK?

RAK couldn’t deliver services to over 2,000 clients a year without volunteers. Our volunteers are often motivated by their own values and get a sense of purpose from their contribution.  We also know that our volunteers enjoy being part of a team and making friends in the community. 

If you are looking for a job, a volunteering opportunity might give you something interesting to write on your CV or give you experience that supports your professional development. 

If you have never volunteered before, it can feel quite daunting.  We can offer a great first-time volunteering experience, with a taster, some training and good company. 

Overview

You will teach beginner/primary level English to small groups of adults who have sought or are seeking asylum in Kingston.

You will plan and deliver classes to meet the needs of students and the aims of the project and work closely with the ESOL team to ensure classes run smoothly.

Students in this class will have very little prior understanding/knowledge of the English language and some may not be literate in their native language, so experience teaching at this level is helpful.

Job Hub Coach role description

Main tasks

• Teach English to a small group of adults on a weekly basis during term time, with a focus on foundational level English.

• Plan, prepare and deliver lessons, incorporating client interests, to ensure clear and productive learning.

• Use a culturally inclusive approach in teaching activities.

• Keep weekly records and monitor learner progress.

• Effectively implement team teaching and report back to the project co-ordinator as necessary.

• Assist in the setting up and clearing away of your classroom space.

Skills, ability and qualities

• ESOL teaching qualification helpful. Experience teaching at an adult beginner and / or primary school level helpful.

• Flexible approach, able to respond to the learning needs of clients.

• Have excellent cultural sensitivity, values and endorse diversity amongst our clients.

• Be extremely reliable and committed to volunteering during school term time.

• Work at ease in a challenging, vibrant environment.

When and where

• Classes run through term-time only.

• Class currently runs 10-12 noon on Wednesdays; future class will be scheduled for Mondays or Wednesdays.

• Class time is flexible to suit the volunteer teacher.

• Central Kingston.

  *Minimum commitment of 6 months required.

Induction, training and support

This role is directly supervised by the RAK ESOL Department.

You will receive:

• Refugee Action Kingston induction and relevant introductory training sessions.

• Occasional refresher training and group meetings as required.

• Optional training / information sessions provided by RAK.

• Regular de-brief with the staff team at RAK.

• Out of pocket expenses within agreed guidelines.

*All Volunteers are required to undergo a DBS check, provided by RAK.

To apply, please email volunteer@refugeeactionkingston.org.uk and our Volunteer Coordinator will be in contact with an application form and to answer any questions you may have.