ESL TEACHER'S ASSISTANT

Volunteers assist certified teachers in conducting beginner level conversational and literacy classes for immigrant women. Volunteers enrich PIRS programs by helping to provide more individual attention to the participants. One of the most important things volunteers do is to help the participants feel welcome and comfortable in the program. Classes are held at schools, community centres and neighbourhood houses throughout East Vancouver.

Required Commitment

One morning or early afternoon per week, Monday-Friday, for a three-month term (September-December; January-March; April-June).

Sample Duties

• Converse with the participants on an informal basis - e.g. at the beginning of the class, during coffee time, at the end of class;
• Serve as the social and conversational link between two or more participants at informal times;
• Assist the teacher in carrying out the language lesson by working with a small group of participants or on a one-to-one basis;
• Act as a facilitator during special events or on field trips;
• Share any special skills or interests with the group

General Requirements

• An interest in multiculturalism;
• Sensitivity to the needs and concerns of immigrant families;
• A warm and positive attitude;
• An understanding of the learning needs of adult participants;
• An interest in language teaching;
• Reliability;
• Ability to work as part of a team

Please contact the Coordinator of Volunteers at 604-298-5888 to find out more about volunteering as an ESL Teacher's Assistant.

PIRS is a United Way Member Agency

Donate to PIRS on-line through Canada-Helps! Click on the icon to go to our secure page.