What's involved

As a Coram Beanstalk reading helper, you will work with children on a one-to-one basis, giving them consistent support to practise reading skills and discover the magic of reading. You can find out more in the role description for each of our opportunities.

How it works:

Your placement will be in a school or nursery within 5 miles of your home or work.
You'll support children between 3 and 13 years of age, depending on your volunteering role.
You'll provide consistent support in reading, talking and listening.

We need you to:

Engage with children on a one-to-one basis
Listen and communicate in a patient and positive manner
Adapt to the abilities and interests of each individual child
Recognise and praise children's achievements
Be flexible and independent in a busy and modern school environment

As a reading helper you will play a vital role in nurturing children to be the best they can be. Confidence and self-esteem will be developed through fun, literacy-based activities, raising both reading attainment and future aspirations.

If you would like to give children, who otherwise may not get enough regular encouragement and support, a better chance to “read, grow and thrive” this volunteer opportunity could be perfect for you! You will read together using a range of books specially chosen to engage children, talk and listen and foster a love of reading in the children you support in this sometimes challenging but very rewarding role.

Reading 321 - apply to volunteer in a primary school

Story Starters - apply to volunteer in an early years setting

How we support you:

Coram Beanstalk is there for you every step of the way during your reading helper journey, with professional training, telephone, email and online support, local coffee mornings and meetings and regional conferences. You can watch some of the highlights of our conferences below.

(Music credit: www.bensound.com)

My friends volunteer for other charities and none of them have had the same positive levels of support and training. Trudy Kosky, Coram Beanstalk reading helper

Reading 321 - apply to volunteer in a primary school

Story Starters - apply to volunteer in an early years setting

Latest

Kiln Elders for Gladstone Park Primary

The Elders of Kiln Theatre are raising money to ensure the continuation of Coram Beanstalk's reading helper support at Gladstone Park Primary School.
Creating Readers (6-8 yrs) - Brighton

Creating Readers (6-8 yrs) inspires you to bring the joy of reading to children aged 6 to 8 years old by focusing on meaning and enjoyment. In this training we cover how to read aloud effectively, to have fun with books, to support a child as they read to you and to check and deepen understanding of text and story.
Creating Readers (3-5 yrs) - Brighton

Creating Readers (3-5 yrs) equips you with the practical skills to help young children aged 3 to 5 years old to become readers, fully involving them in the reading experience before they can read words themselves. You will learn how to use the techniques that have been proven to have the biggest impact on helping children be ready to learn to read when they begin their primary education.
Creating Readers (3-5 yrs) - Newcastle

Creating Readers (3-5 yrs) equips you with the practical skills to help young children aged 3 to 5 years old to become readers, fully involving them in the reading experience before they can read words themselves. You will learn how to use the techniques that have been proven to have the biggest impact on helping children be ready to learn to read when they begin their primary education.

Why volunteer?

Become a Coram Beanstalk reading helper to make a lasting difference to a child's life and enjoy a unique volunteering experience.
Your initial training

Our initial training is fun, interactive and enjoyable. At the end of the day you’ll have a much greater knowledge of your chosen role and will have had a go at demonstrating the key skills required.
Our training team

Our training team will ensure you feel well prepared for when you start volunteering, so that you're confident right from the start.
Where we work

Coram Beanstalk offers different programmes across the UK. Find out where our main volunteering opportunities are here.
Frequently asked questions

Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions by new volunteers.
Volunteer agreement

Volunteers are an essential and valued part of Coram Beanstalk. Find out more about how we will do the best we can to make your volunteer experience with us enjoyable and rewarding.