Role Overview

The English Language Support Team plays a crucial role in helping asylum seekers and refugees improve their English skills, boosting their confidence and ability to engage with daily life in the UK. Volunteers assist in delivering English language lessons at our drop-ins, working closely with our ESOL Coordinator to plan and develop the provision. We welcome both qualified English language teachers and volunteers without formal qualifications who are keen to assist in lessons.

Responsibilities

• Delivering or assisting in the delivery of English language lessons at community drop-ins.
• Providing informal support to learners by encouraging participation and conversation.
• Working with the ESOL Coordinator to plan lessons and develop teaching approaches.
• Helping set up learning spaces with materials and resources.
• Adapting sessions to suit learners of different levels and backgrounds.
• Providing a welcoming and supportive environment for learners.

Lesson Materials

• Teaching materials are provided, ensuring structured learning sessions.
• Volunteers are encouraged to suggest or bring additional materials that could enhance learning.
• Sessions may include conversation practice, vocabulary building, reading exercises, and role-play scenarios to support real-life communication.

Skills and Qualities

• No formal teaching qualifications required (but TEFL/ESOL qualifications are welcome!).
• Patience and a friendly, encouraging approach to working with learners.
• Good communication skills and a clear speaking voice.
• Ability to work as part of a team and follow lesson plans.
• Adaptability and cultural awareness, as learners come from diverse backgrounds.
• A passion for helping others and breaking down language barriers.

Time Commitment

• Volunteers can assist weekly, fortnightly, or monthly based on availability.
• Drop-in lessons typically take place during scheduled community sessions.

Support & Benefits

• Training and guidance provided by the ESOL Coordinator.
• Opportunity to gain teaching experience, particularly valuable for those pursuing ESOL/TEFL careers.
• References available for job applications and asylum claims.
• The chance to make a real difference in the lives of asylum seekers and refugees.
• Be part of a friendly, welcoming team supporting community integration.

Volunteer Inductions

All new volunteers are invited to attend an induction session where they will learn about SASS, our mission, and key facts about the UK asylum system. The session also provides an overview of the different volunteer roles available, helping new volunteers find a role that best suits their skills and interests.

Volunteer Wellbeing & Feedback Sessions

To ensure volunteers feel supported and valued, we hold periodic wellbeing sessions where volunteers can discuss their experiences, provide feedback, and explore new opportunities within SASS. These sessions help us improve our work while creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all volunteers.

Contact Sue:

Email: sue.sass.esol@gmail.com

Mobile/Whatsapp: 07707 850898

SASS Community Drop-ins

Fridays: 4pm – 7pm – St James Parish Hall, Walters Road, Swansea. SA1 4QA
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Saturdays: 12pm – 3pm – York Place Baptist Church, 1 York St, Swansea. SA1 3LZ

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SASS Links

About SASS: www.sass.wales/about-sass/

SASS News: www.sass.wales/news/

SASS Directory: www.sass.wales/sass-directory/

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