As a
Volunteer you will be involved in helping adults with
identifiable problems return to education. You could be working
with an adult recovering from an alcohol or drug problem, have
mental health issues or on probation.
You will
be actively involved in supporting learners, in group work
or one-to-one. Your involvement will be rewarding and challenging. We
hold inductions (2 x 2 hour sessions) every few weeks.
NEARIS's
success with adults heavily relies on volunteers; it simply
couldn't be done without their help, enthusiasm and commitment.
MERC
operates a 'dry' centre - all students, staff and volunteers
must not be under the influence of alcohol or illegal
substances.
Current MERC
courses are Basic Skills (literacy and numeracy), Information
Technology, Art, Pottery, Music, Drama, Cookery and Creative
Writing.
The Manchester, Bolton and Oldham
Outreach projects, which offer courses in hostels and day centres, are
currently running courses in basic computers (word processing, Desk Top
Publishing, Internet and email) Manchester Outreach also run Gardening courses
in the summer months. Bolton also run courses in family learning, art,
sewing, ESOL and basic skills.
Volunteers
are not expected to teach - NEARIS has tutors who provide
materials and guidance to students and volunteers. Volunteers help tutors
by supporting students during sessions.
Volunteers
at NEARIS need to have:
Ability to
speak basic English
Ability to
be non judgemental
Flexibility
and patience
Interest in building working
relationships with students, tutors and non
paid staff
Have
experience in any of the following areas:
Music,
singing, art, pottery, drama, computers, ESOL, sewing or an interest in basic English and
maths
Help with
travel expenses can be arranged. If you think you can
help, be non-judgemental, have a sense of humour and would enjoy
a relaxed environment - please contact me: