Important message about COVID-19: Thank you for visiting this page to find out more about becoming a reading helper with Coram Beanstalk. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the temporary closure of schools, our volunteers are currently unable to carry out their reading sessions as usual. However, we are still processing volunteer applications and encourage anyone interested in becoming a reading helper to apply as normal by completing the form below. We are using this time to explore ways in which we can provide on-going training for our volunteers and vital reading support to children who continue to need this. We may, therefore, get back in touch with you before schools re-open if there are feasible options to provide this remotely.

By becoming a Story Starter volunteer you will give a child in a local early years setting/nursery the skills to start primary school ready to read. You’ll open up their lives to the magic of stories and provide crucial language development in a way which is fun for both you and the child!

How does it work?

  • As a Story Starter you will support three children aged 3-5 years' old on a one-to-one basis, using play and stories to develop and enrich their use of language.
  • You’ll need to commit to volunteering at a local nursery/early years setting for one hour, twice a week during nursery hours.
  • You’ll receive professional training and support to ensure that you are best able to support young children and feel comfortable in a modern nursery/early years setting.

What do I need to do?

  • To become a Story Starter you will need to support children aged 3-5 on a one-to-one basis in a modern nursery environment.
  • You must be able to communicate with children in a fun and inspiring manner, adapting the conversation and learning resources to their personal interests and abilities.
  • You’ll need to commit to the safeguarding and welfare of the children you support, in line with our volunteering policy.
  • You can read our full Story Starter volunteer role description here. 

Apply to become a Story Starter volunteer

Simply fill in the below application form and we’ll give you a call to discuss things further.

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