Volunteer language tutors needed
Published on: 09 Sep 2022
Are you interested in helping migrants learn English? Do you have some spare time on weekdays?
Whilst TasTAFE provides on-campus English classes for migrants, some students need one-on-one help to improve specific aspects such as writing skills.
TasTAFE currently has about 40 volunteer tutors. As the demand grows, TasTAFE is looking for new volunteers in Hobart, offering a six-week tutor training beginning on 24 October 2022. It involves about 10 hours of online study and three face to face sessions at TasTAFE’s Campbell St Campus.
After completing their training, volunteer tutors assist migrant students for around an hour each week. Sessions are on a one-on-one basis and usually held at a community location such as a library or alternatively in students’ homes. Many of the migrant students live in Hobart’s Northern suburbs, but also in other locations around the greater Hobart area. Tutors assist migrant students to learn speaking, reading and writing English, as well as establish important connections with the local community.
Sally (pictured with migrant student Damito) became a volunteer tutor in June this year and says it’s very satisfying to be able to help someone.
“I had some free time because I’ve retired. Tutoring is a warm experience for me and I get a lot out of it. I hope that what I’m doing is beneficial for Damito.”
Damito migrated from Ethiopia in 2019. She says the one-on-one sessions with Sally have been very helpful.
“I want to improve my English, because English is important for everything but especially for jobs.”
Damito is currently interested in studying child care at TasTAFE. She also hopes to expand her potential for other careers by improving her English.
“Tutoring sessions are great, because I can learn lots of new words,” Damito said.
Volunteer Tutor Scheme Administrator, Hiroko Kunimoto said “Our tutors do a fantastic job and I keep hearing great stories of friendships and their students’ achieving their goals.”
If you have a genuine interest in this rewarding program, please email Hiroko at TasTAFE.Home.Tutor.ELS@tastafe.tas.edu.au for more information.
The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. TasTAFE is an AMEP service provider in Southern Tasmania.