Description of Service:

Dedicated volunteers from the community, aged 55 and above, are trained by Barnardos staff to assist children in DEIS schools who need a little extra help with their reading. These volunteer Wizards are then paired with a child and meet with them two or three times a week during school hours, to practice their reading. The child benefits from having one-on-one care and attention and the Wizards really love being able to share their time, bringing generations together to help each other.

More information about the Wizard of Words Programme

Location:

• Various DEIS primary schools.

Outline of Volunteers Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Meet children two or three times a week during school hours to practice the child’s reading

Training and Support Plan:

• Full training provided by Barnardos

Time Commitment:

• Monday to Friday
• Morning during school hours

Person Specification:

• Aged over 55
• Has full Garda clearance
• Have a passion for reading
• Available 2-3 mornings a week
• Is kind and patient

Application process and references required