The Adult Literacy and Basic Education Programme of Kerry Education and Training Board operates with the assistance of volunteers and paid tutors who come together to provide help for adults with literacy difficulties.
What is Literacy?
For some, a literacy difficulty may mean being unable to write a birthday card. For another it could mean not being able to write reports at work. Some people have difficulty reading a newspaper, or completing a form.
All good literacy work starts with the needs of the individual. It involves the integration of listening, speaking, reading, writing and numeracy. It also encompasses elements of personal development and is concerned with improving self-esteem and building confidence.
Who are the volunteer tutors?
Volunteer tutors come from a wide range of backgrounds in the local community. Teaching qualifications are not required as initial and in-service training is organised for all volunteer tutors. Volunteers have a high standard of English, are effective communicators and are good with people. They understand the importance of confidentiality and being able to work with others. They have basic IT skills and are well organised. Tutors are over 18 years of age.
What is expected of a volunteer tutor?
Volunteers usually work once per week for 2 hours. In addition time is required for preparation, meeting with the Organiser and for in-service training.
Volunteer tutors are expected to make a commitment to the service of at least 12 months following training and to respect the confidential nature of the work.
All tutors are required to complete an application for Garda Vetting and to provide names of two referees. Suitable referees are people, not relatives, who know you for at least two years ideally through a group or organisation. Applicants will be shortlisted for interview. Successful interviewees will be invited to attend an initial tutor training course.
Schemes need help with many other tasks such as publicity, preparing a newsletter, organising social events and running a resource library.
Our group tutors:
- Deliver a range of subjects to small groups
- Employ a learner-centred approach
- Also deliver one to one literacy tuition, wherever possible
- Prepare learners and groups for QQI certification
- Attend regular in-service training courses
