Literacy Support Volunteer (Hackney)

We take children on voyages as readers and writers. Volunteer with us to join the adventure!

Who are Literacy Pirates?

Through our year-long after-school programme, we develop the literacy, confidence and perseverance of children aged 9-13 who are falling behind in class and have fewer opportunities in their personal lives, so that they can succeed at school and beyond. 

Children join us in our fantastical, pirate-themed space in Hackney to practise their reading and writing. We also publish their work in the real world so that every Young Pirate finishes the programme a published author, journalist and film star! 

What does a Volunteer do? 

As a Volunteer Crewmate, your role is to come along to our sessions in Hackney and help children practise their reading and writingin small groups by providing constant encouragement, positivity and celebration of their achievements.

Sessions are led and managed by staff, which means you can dedicate the whole time you’re with us to providing direct support to the children. 

You will: 

• Receive full training.
• Gain experience working with children and leading small groups.
• Develop your communication, leadership and problem-solving skills.
• Take part in games and have fun.
• Be invited to celebration events with the children to see the difference that you’ve made. 

We offer: 

• Employment references, for volunteers who have fulfilled their commitment of 12 sessions with us.
• Work placements for students.

What are we looking for? 

We ask volunteers to give just four afternoons per school term, although you are welcome to volunteer as frequently as you like! 

Sessions run every weekday during term time from 3:45 to 6:45 p.m. and you will have the flexibility to select which sessions you would like to attend. Please note, we do not run sessions during half terms or the Christmas, Easter and Summer holidays.

No experience is required to become a volunteer - just a desire to help children develop their reading and writing skills! Full training is provided. 

All we ask is that you: 

• Are aged 16+ 
• Must be a UK resident, and are able to commute to our Hackney ship 
• Complete a criminal background check (we cover the cost of this)

Our Hackney ship is located at:

138 Kingsland High Street

London

E8 2NS

Apply via our website and start your training! https://literacypirates.org/volunteer/ 

If you have any questions or wish to discuss completing your work placement with us, please email volunteering@literacypirates.org.