Reading Helpers
Suitable for -
Opportunity Description
Coram Beanstalk: Children's Literacy Charity
We Work With Schools & Parents To Help Children Grow A Love For Reading
We train and support community volunteers, young people and caregivers to give children something powerful: Time, connection and joy. A shared love of books and the opportunity to dream.
Every week, our volunteers sit with the same children, building relationships that go far beyond the pages of a book. They follow the child’s pace, share laughter, listen deeply, and create a space where children choose reading and build essential skills for a brighter future.
Our community volunteers are often, but not always, early retirees – active, interested, and ready to give back. They find purpose and community in helping children grow in confidence and ability. And they’re never doing it alone – with expert training, ongoing support, and a strong community behind them, they feel equipped and valued from day one.
Reading Helper - Primary School
Reading Helper's are adult volunteers living or working within a 5 mile radius of a school that has asked for our help. You need to commit to at least an afternoon a week for a whole year during term-time, and as we invest in your training we'd appreciate it if you could stay longer.
The role isn't about listening to children read, but creating a relaxed session that allows children to work alongside you to discover the joy of books. We provide full training and ongoing support.
Requirements
No specific qualifications are required.
All volunteers are subject to safer recruitment checks (DBS)
All volunteers attend online training sessions before being placed in a school.
Our volunteer role descriptions (which can be found on our website) provide more detail about what we are looking for from volunteers.
More Info
Volunteers are in school one afternoons a week during term time, working 1:1 with children
