“I’ve been involved with other volunteer placements before and I like helping people. When I saw an advert to be part of this community I thought it was an excellent proposal to contribute from home.”Mayra
Informal conversation can help increase knowledge of the language, vocabulary and fluency.
Some of the people who ask MissionAssist to help them improve their spoken English have already been tutored and can read and write well enough. However, they may want to improve their confidence in speaking in English, or they may specifically want to practice understanding a wider range of accents and dialects. This helps them be better prepared for meetings or conferences they attend.
MissionAssist is seeking volunteers who can offer conversations usually once or twice a week, just using day-to-day vocabulary, with friendly enquiries and explanations. The opportunity for some simple teaching might occur from time-to-time if you wish, but that is not expected. (English language advice from formally qualified members of the English tutoring team would be available if required.)
Each volunteer will be given some information about new clients requesting the service and their aims. You can decide if you are available and willing to speak with them to help them towards their goal. Once you have agreed to partner with a learner, you would liaise with the client and arrange sessions at a mutually convenient time.
Key Tasks
- Organise and host conversation practice sessions, usually using a video conferencing tool such as Zoom, Skype or WhatsApp.
- Keep in contact with the service coordinator, to support their role which includes matching volunteers to English learners.
Requirements
- Fluent English speaker – regional accents welcome.
- Enjoy turn-taking conversation.
- Ability to give positive, helpful feedback.