Skip to main content
Idea Store logo
Library catalogue

How to Be a Successful Volunteer

Course Title: How to Be a Successful Volunteer
Hours per week: 2.5 hours

More Course Details: Prospectus List | ontrack: Learner Hub

To Join: How can you join?

Brief course description:

This is a 9-week course designed to prepare you for the next step: the Becoming an ESOL Teaching Assistant Level 1 course or if you are actively looking for a volunteer role in the community. It is ideal for learners currently working at Level 1 or those preparing to take a Level 1 ESOL exam.

Are you interested in helping others and learning how volunteering can build your skills and confidence? Would you like to understand how charities and community organisations support people in the UK? This course is for learners who want to explore volunteering opportunities while improving their English and preparing for further study in education or support work.

You will learn about different voluntary organisations in the UK and how they support the elderly, children, people with disabilities or health issues, and the environment. You will understand the rights and responsibilities of volunteers and explore the skills needed for different voluntary roles. You will practise reading leaflets and forms, writing short CVs and personal statements, completing volunteer applications, and speaking confidently about your experience. The course includes guest speakers, real-life tasks, and information about how to start volunteering in your local community.

Objectives:

  1. Learn about different types of voluntary organisations in Tower Hamlets, such as charity shops, food banks, animal shelters, Idea Stores and how they support the local community.
  2. Understand what volunteers do, their responsibilities, and their rights (for example, training, safety and equal opportunities).
  3. Explore the skills and personal qualities that make a good volunteer, such as teamwork, communication and problem-solving.
  4. Take part in practical volunteering-style tasks to build your skills and confidence.
  5. Keep a reflective journal about your volunteering experience and how it supports your personal and career development.
  6. Build your confidence in using English for speaking, listening, reading and writing in real-life situations.
  7. Practise using English to write emails, fill in forms and create short reports linked to your volunteering.
  8. Learn how to talk about your volunteering experience in job applications, interviews and workplace conversations.
  9. Write a simple CV or personal statement, showing your volunteering experience and achievements.
  10. Use English to explain the benefits of volunteering for yourself, your community and your future career – and feel confident talking about your role in job interviews.

Entry requirements:

This is a Level 1 preparation course. You should already be working at or near Level 1 in ESOL, with the ability to communicate clearly in speaking and writing. You are developing your skills in more formal and work-related contexts. You will need to complete a pre-course assessment and should have an interest in volunteering or working in the education, community, or support sectors. You will also be required to join a maths class at Level 1 if you have not already achieved this qualification.

Equipment required:

Please bring:

  • A folder
  • Pens & pencils
  • Lined A4 paper
  • A smartphone (if you have one)
  • A reusable water bottle

WIFI details will be provided in the first session.

What courses can I go on to:

After completing this course, you may go on to:

  • Becoming a Volunteer ESOL Teaching Assistant (Level 1 Award) S1B/S2
  • Functional Skills English Level 1/2
  • Digital Skills
  • Level 1/2 Speaking & Listening or Reading & Writing Exam Classes
  • IELTS Preparation Course

Please ask your tutor for more information or contact ESOLAdvice@towerhamlets.gov.uk

What examination is there:

There is no examination for this course. However, this course provides crucial preparation for the Becoming an ESOL Teaching Assistant Level 1 exam-based course. You will work towards individual learning goals set with your tutor to help build your skills and confidence in preparation for the next step.

How will I know I am making progress:

At the start of the course, your tutor will help you create an individual learning plan (ILP). You will have regular tutorials to review your progress, set new goals and receive feedback. You will complete reading, writing, speaking and listening tasks during lessons and homework activities to help you develop your skills.

If your attendance is below 80%, you may lose your place and will not receive a certificate of completion.

Other info:

This course supports your personal development and helps you become an active citizen. You will build key skills for work and life, including:

  • Communication: speaking and writing confidently
  • Teamwork: collaborating and respecting others
  • Problem-solving: responding to real-world needs
  • Digital Skills: using technology in a work setting

You will also learn about local voluntary opportunities and how to get involved in your community.

Extra support:

If you have a learning difficulty, disability, or other support needs, please let us know during enrolment or at your first class. We can provide extra help to support your learning.