Summer of Fun Reading Challenge volunteer role description
This role is for young people aged 14 - 17 who want to gain experience volunteering with children and families. You will help staff to deliver the Tower Hamlets Summer of Fun Reading Challenge and other children’s events and activities taking place this summer at your local library or Idea Store.
Volunteers will be supervised and supported by experienced staff. Applicants should ideally attend a local school or live local to the borough. A minimum of one week commitment is required; 4hrs per day (10am-2pm or 2pm-6pm), Monday to Saturday. Parental consent is required for children under 16. The option to volunteer for additional weeks may be possible, dependent on availability of spaces at the site.
What type of things will I do?
- Help us deliver the Tower Hamlets Summer of Fun Reading Challenge
- Engage with families and encourage them to sign-up and get involved
- Help younger children with reading, choosing books and collecting stickers
- Help with children’s events, games and regular activities like Storytime and Art Club
- Assist with general housekeeping and other tasks in the children’s library area
What is expected of me?
- Commitment to the agreed dates and times
- Good behaviour - positively represent Idea Store and your school
- Professional, punctual and appropriately dressed (smart casual)
- No mobile phone use during placement hours
- No standing around chatting with friends
- Inform staff as soon as possible if sick or unable to attend
- Enthusiasm and willingness to get involved, learn new skills and be part of the team!
What will I gain?
- Valuable work experience to add to your CV, university letters or job applications
- Experience of working with children and families for diverse communities
- Experience of working in a busy customer-facing council service environment
- Skills development such as increased confidence, communication, people skills, etc.
- Experience of working in a team with experienced staff
- Insight into the daily running of your local Idea Store or library service
- Certificate of achievement and feedback on performance
We reserve the right to withdraw or end the placement, if required.