ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Volunteer Teacher

Position Title: Volunteer Role Description: ESOL (English for Speakers of Other

             Languages) Volunteer Teacher

Reports to: Ellen Pearce

Location: Clients home.

Time Commitment: 2-3 hours a week

Purpose of Role

GARAS supports refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants. Many of our clients
face barriers in learning English due to trauma, displacement, or additional needs. As an
ESOL Volunteer, you will be part of a team to support learners to develop their English
language skills in a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment, under the supervision of
and guidelines of GARAS.

Key Responsibilities

●  Assist in the delivery of ESOL lessons programme within a home setting.
●  Work with a couple in their own home to support learning and build confidence in

speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

●  Create an inclusive and patient learning environment, recognising that many learners
may have had little (or no) schooling. May have experienced trauma or may have
additional needs (SEN).

●  Enable learners to use English in practical, everyday situations.
●  Prepare lessons and resources appropriate to differing levels of needs.
●  Uphold GARAS safeguarding procedures and maintain appropriate professional

boundaries at all times.

●  Report any concerns regarding learners’ wellbeing to a GARAS staff member.
●  Attend volunteer meetings, training, and supervision as required.

Skills and Qualities Needed

●

It is essential that ESOL classroom teachers hold ESOL qualifications. For ESOL
classroom assistants this is desirable although not essential.

●  Friendly, patient, and approachable manner.

●  Strong communication skills and ability to adapt to learners with varying levels of

English or maths.

●  Understanding of (or willingness to learn about) working with individuals who may

have experienced trauma.

●  Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

●  Reliability and good timekeeping.

●  Ability to work as part of a team and follow guidance.

Time Commitment

●  Minimum of 2 hours per week.

●  We ask for a minimum commitment of 6 months, to provide continuity for learners

and fellow ESOL teachers.

Support and Training

●

Induction and training provided by GARAS.

●  Ongoing supervision and support from staff.

●  Opportunities to attend relevant training sessions.

Benefits of Volunteering

●  Using skills and motivation to make a meaningful difference in the lives of refugees

and asylum seekers.

●  Gain experience in ESOL teaching and working with vulnerable groups.

●  Develop teaching and communication skills.

●  Be part of a friendly and supportive team.

●  Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses.

Additional Notes

●  All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check before starting.

●  All contact with outside agencies (e.g. colleges, support services) must be conducted

by GARAS staff.

●  All work with young people or vulnerable adults must follow GARAS safeguarding

policies.