EdConnect
EdConnect has been operating for over 20 years in Australia, connecting volunteers to young people in schools. They previously operated under ‘The School Volunteer Program’. EdConnect trains, supports and places volunteers in schools to improve the lives of students. They support the schools to raise literacy and numeracy standards, equipping young people with the life skills and enhancing students’ wellbeing. They help to enrich the community by enabling people of all ages to help each other, providing support so that everyone has the opportunity to realise their potential – in school, in life, in society.
At Settlers Primary we use both Mentoring and Learning Support volunteers who support various students across the school.
- Mentoring provides one on one or small group weekly sessions that focus on providing emotional support, teaching social and resiliency skills and being a confidant.
- Learning Support volunteers provide classroom support to teachers, working with small groups of students to improve an academic concern. They support the students on a weekly basis under the direction of the teacher who provides resources and work packages.
Story Dogs
Story Dogs is a non for profit organisation whose mission is to make reading fun for children, so they become confident lifelong readers. Using the accepting and loving nature of dogs this program provides a safe and non judgemental approach to supporting reluctant readers to enjoy reading. This program helps students to focus, improves their literacy skills and their confidence soars. Once a week, volunteers and their canine companions come to school to listen to a selection of students read, have fun and enjoy doggy cuddles.
For more information about the Story Dogs organisation and is programs and details on how to sponsor one of the volunteer dog teams, please visit storydogs.org.au