Reading Helper (Redcar)

Save the Children works in partnership with children’s literacy charity Beanstalk, to place volunteers in local primary schools. A national charity, Beanstalk provides one-to-one literacy support to children who struggle with their reading ability and confidence.

By volunteering as a Beanstalk reading helper you'll pass on your** skills and experience**, and make a** lasting difference** in your local community. 98% of children have an increase in confidence and 94% enjoy reading more than before they started reading with a volunteer.

Supporting children from age 5-11, you will be placed in a school within 5 miles of your home. It’s so important for these children that there is consistency throughout the school year so Beanstalk does ask that volunteers commit to the weekly sessions. These will be set so you will know exactly when you are volunteering and you’ll get to know the children you support. Watching them grow and develop their confidence and skill is a joy. This is such a rewarding role, and although it’s a demanding one too, 90% of Beanstalk’s Reading Helpers would recommend the volunteer role to their friends.

The application and selection process is entirely managed by Beanstalk (Registered Charity No. 296454 - England and Wales). Clicking Apply will take you directly to their site. As well as references, you will need to have a criminal records check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), but they will take you through this.

With good literacy skills, and a really patient, encouraging attitude, all you really need is a genuine enthusiasm for reading. Beanstalk will provide great induction training as well as ongoing support and refresher training too.

This is a fantastic role for anyone with the time and commitment who wants to make a direct, positive impact on children’s literacy in their own community.