Role Overview

Barnardos literacy programme Wizards of Words (WoW) aims to improve children’s literacy skills and help them become better, more confident readers. Each child is matched with a mature adult volunteer tutor 55+. The trained volunteers will work with the child over an academic year, working with them on their literacy and helping to boost their confidence and self-esteem. The programme is based in DEIS schools and assists children from 1st & 2nd class.

We are currently looking for volunteers who would be especially interested in working in schools in Dublin 11 & Dublin 15, to start in September / early October 2025 - and be available 2 mornings per week for the academic year.

• Informal interviews will be held in our Head Office in Christchurch Square ASAP
• Garda Vetting will be carried out by Barnardos in advance of starting the programme

Training:

Full training provided by Barnardos on Tuesday 26, Wed 27 and Thurs 28 August, 2025 – you MUST be available for training for all 3 training days to be considered for the programme.

Outline of Volunteers Tasks and Responsibilities:

• To work with a child on a one-to-one basis helping them to improve their reading skills.
• To encourage the child with reading and help to boost their confidence and self-esteem.
• Arrive at site 30 minutes before tutoring session.
• Prepare materials for training session (full training will be given by Barnardos)
• Follow the session plan & record how the session went.
• Provide feedback on sessions to the Project Leader and/or teacher and report any concerns.

Time Commitment:

Twice per week – during the academic year. The same 2 x days each week between Monday - Thursday only. There is no reading sessions carried out during school holidays.

About Us

Barnardos supports children whose wellbeing is under threat, by working with them, their families and communities and by campaigning for the rights of children.

Barnardos was established in Ireland in 1962 and is Ireland's leading independent children's charity.

What's Required

- No formal qualifications are required
- Interested in reading and understand its value
- Interested in working with children & the ability to relate to children on their own level
- Maturity, patience, tolerance and tact
- Consistent and dependable
- Understand and value diversity

Level of English Required

Fluent English

Age Restrictions

Over 55

Time and Commitment Required for this Role

Minimum time commitment: 1 year
Hours required: 5 hours twice per week – 2.5 hours – twice per week

Volunteers will be Provided with the Following Supports

• Support/ advice/ recognition
• Initial induction and training
• Reimbursement of expenses

Benefits You Will Receive as a Volunteer

• Satisfaction of making a difference to a child and improving their chances in life. Attend social events and meet other adults and volunteers.
• There is an opportunity to get together with the other volunteers for tea/coffee before or after the sessions.

Contact:

Lisa Tobin: lisa.tobin@barnardos.ie  or Tel: 086-8570112