We train and support community volunteers, young people and caregivers to give children something powerful:
Time, connection and joy. A shared love of books and the opportunity to dream.
Every week, our volunteers sit with the same children, building relationships that go far beyond the pages of a book. They follow the child’s pace, share laughter, listen deeply, and create a space where children choose reading and build essential skills for a brighter future.
Our community volunteers are often, but not always, early retirees – active, interested, and ready to give back. They find purpose and community in helping children grow in confidence and ability. And they’re never doing it alone – with expert training, ongoing support, and a strong community behind them, they feel equipped and valued from day one.
Reading Helper's are adult volunteers living or working within a 5 mile radius of a school that has asked for our help. You need to commit to at least an afternoon a week for a whole year during term-time, and as we invest in your training we'd appreciate it if you could stay longer.
The role isn't about listening to children read, but creating a relaxed session that allows children to work alongside you to discover the joy of books.
Are you able to:
Be open to learning and delivering our approach to help children become readers?
Give your ongoing commitment and dedication to the charity and the children we support for at least a year?
Travel to one of our partner primary schools for a few hours each week during their afternoon sessions?
Use a PC/laptop/tablet to access our interactive, live training sessions via Zoom?
Supply appropriate ID documents and complete a Digital ID check?
Use email* to receive and respond to communications from us?
*If you do apply please check your spam/junk email folders as we get sad when we end up in there and you feel we've not answered you!
No matter what your prior experience is, we can help you to be a great reading helper. As long as you can relate to children, are prepared to use some silly voices and really believe getting children to enjoy reading can make a difference we'll support you to put your time to the best possible use.
A minimum of one consistent weekday afternoon per week throughout the school year. Sessions are usually approx 1pm-3.30pm
Before you are introduced to a school you'll attend:
Three small group live sessions via Zoom, 1.5-2hrs each
One-to-one interview via Zoom, 20 minutes
You'll also need to follow online instructions to complete a DBS check which involves a Digital ID check via the Yoti app.
Although we are happy to help you if you are a bit tech-shy, you need to have access to a smartphone and a tablet or laptop to complete this stage.
Full training
Enhanced DBS
Volunteer website of resources
Ongoing learning & development opportunities
Annual conference
We try to place you in a partner school within a 5mile radius but it's great if you're willing to go a little bit further if necessary.
