Faith–based charity seeks volunteer tutors
A faith–based community charity is looking for volunteers to help children with homework and reading.
Equipping for Life (EFL) needs 50–70 tutors to add to an established team of 160 who are ready to help when permitted to return to schools.
The charity was founded by Revd Canon Br David Jardine in 2018 to encourage church people to give their time free of charge to help those living in areas which are disadvantaged.
Schools are the place where EFL has been able to make an immediate impact and each week, volunteers take two children for half an hour each. The children love this personal attention because it’s one to one, however more tutors are needed, particularly around the Shankill area.
“Recently we sent an email to 10 schools in the Shankill area, offering particular ways in which we could help when the schools are open to us in September,” said David. “Inside five minutes seven of them were back to us saying they would like a Homework Club, and six requested an extra team of volunteers to go in every week.”
The Diocese of Down and Dromore is well represented among the current volunteers with tutors coming from the parishes of Holywood, Knocknagoney, Orangefield, Knockbreda, Hillsborough, Aghalee and St. Finnian’s.
Colin Maxwell, a volunteer tutor from Holywood says:
“Although the intention of the scheme is to benefit the children, I can honestly say that I have also got a lot out of being involved – some interesting chats and some laughs, as well as seeing my two pupils grow in confidence. As I haven’t come from a teaching background, I was not confident that a tutoring role was for me, but I am glad that I took that step and volunteered.
“Listening to children reading doesn’t need special training – it just needs you to be there. Encouraging children to develop a love of reading doesn’t need special training – it just needs you to show interest in those who come and to positively encourage them. So, if you are reading this and wondering if this is for you then my advice is to give it a go and see where it takes you. I think you might be surprised at how much you enjoy it!”
Do you feel that you would like to help? You could take children for reading one hour per week, become a prayer partner (a very important role), or make available particular talents that you have.”
If you would like to learn more check the website www.equippingforlife.org.uk or call Pat Hutchinson at 077889572800.
Pictured above: A tutor works with pupils in Forth River Primary school.