Volunteering at Doncaster College

Volunteering opportunities with Doncaster College

Vol.Success Programme

Placement Opportunities

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A range of volunteering opportunities is being offered within Doncaster College, all of which will support learners and aim to enhance their study experience.

Examples of specific roles are:

“Buddy” to learners who are leaving care or who may be currently cared for by Foster Carers or other agencies. Working closely with the College’s Looked After Children Educational Champion.
“Peer Mentor” working alongside College Youth Engagement and Enrichment staff, supporting learners in the development of, and access to, enrichment activities. You will support Student Representatives in their role with student groups or members of the Student Parliament and encourage learners wishing to develop healthy, safe lifestyles.
Nursery Support Volunteer based within the College’s Nurseries at The Hub and High Melton.
Study Support, supporting 1-1 and in groups within the classroom with learners who have learning disabilities and in the development of independent living skills and basic skills and encouraging learners to develop and access activities
Learning Resource Centre Support Volunteer – supporting learners by encouraging and enabling them to access information in a range of formats, also engaging with the Children’s University team, supporting primary school children within College.
Catering/Customer Service Support Volunteer – working alongside catering staff within the College’s Food Hall and Kitchen and developing customer service and catering skills, which will involve consultation with learners and influence healthy eating.

Full details of placement duties are available in this document.

How long will the volunteering placement last?

35 weeks, from September 2011 to July 2012
Between 1 and 4 days per week

How will volunteering help me?

It will help you by:

Increasing your skills, qualifications and employability, during the 35 week placement
Enabling you to study for a relevant qualification
Providing the opportunity of checking out and experiencing potential careers
Building your self-confidence and leadership skills
Providing the opportunity for you to make a difference and influence College life for all learners
Ensuring that you leave the Project prepared for moving into a job or further high education or training

What will be expected of me?

Commitment and a strong desire to support others for the benefit of learners within College
Co-operation with other volunteers and College staff in the planning and development of activities
Reliability, good time-keeping and being a positive role model for young people

What can I expect from Doncaster College?

Regular support and encouragement from the Volunteer Co-ordinator
The opportunity to study for an appropriate qualification
Recognition for your efforts and contribution as a volunteer
Clear levels of responsibility and expectations in relation to each volunteer ‘placement’ within College
To request Criminal Record Bureau checks for all volunteers
An Induction programme which will cover Health and Safety, Child Protection, and familiarisation with the College as a large organisation
Information and guidance in relation to your planned career path
Regular monitoring and review of progress

What skills are needed to be a Vol.Success Volunteer?

An interest in supporting children, young people and learners who may have a disability
Enthusiasm and commitment to encouraging others to take part in activities, including volunteering