At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engaging conversations to help learners improve their spoken English skills.
- Company: Join a vibrant community with Student Action for Refugees (STAR).
- Benefits: Flexible volunteering hours, training provided, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Build a sense of community and enjoy a rewarding experience.
- Why this job: Enhance your communication skills while supporting others in a friendly environment.
- Qualifications: Open to all students, no specific English level required.
Working with Community Learning West, Bristol STAR’s ESOL (English for speakers of another language) Conversation Club is a welcoming, non-judgmental space for learners to improve their spoken English language skills. Each session focuses on a different topic, so learners can have experience talking about a variety of subjects, from holidays to healthcare, animals to architecture.
As a volunteer, you will use the resources provided by STAR’s Convo Club Coordinators to steer conversations about the topic of the day, to help attendees practice speaking about useful, practical topics and more light-hearted, fun topics.
The club is held every Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30pm-6.30pm in Bristol Central Library on College Green. After receiving training, volunteers can join as often or as little as they choose, meaning this volunteering opportunity fits well into busy student life! It is usually a very enjoyable experience for volunteers, and a sense of community builds quickly within the club.
Furthermore, if volunteers attend several conversation clubs and feel comfortable, they can lead sessions and create new topics for learners and volunteers to discuss. This volunteering opportunity is open to anyone in the student community who would be interested in taking part, regardless of your level of spoken English - it is a great chance for everybody involved to improve their conversational English skills!
To apply use the button below.
Student Action for Refugees (STAR) is one of the over 50 local groups of the national STAR charity, which seeks to unite students in welcoming asylum seekers and refugees in the UK through various enriching volunteering opportunities.
Volunteer ESOL Conversation Leader — Bristol Evenings employer: Bristol SU Group
Contact Detail:
Bristol SU Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer ESOL Conversation Leader — Bristol Evenings
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Community Learning West and STAR to understand their mission and values. This will help you connect with them during conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your conversational skills before the sessions. Think about common topics like holidays or healthcare, and prepare some questions or prompts. This will help you feel more confident when leading discussions and engaging with learners.
✨Tip Number 3
Be approachable and friendly! Remember, the goal is to create a welcoming environment for learners. Smile, make eye contact, and encourage everyone to share their thoughts. A positive attitude goes a long way in building a sense of community.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t hesitate to apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right people. Plus, we’re always looking for enthusiastic volunteers who want to make a real impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer ESOL Conversation Leader — Bristol Evenings
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your interests and experiences that make you unique.
Show Your Passion: Make sure to express why you’re excited about volunteering as an ESOL Conversation Leader. We love seeing applicants who are genuinely enthusiastic about helping others improve their English skills!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to read through the job description and align your skills and experiences with what we’re looking for. Highlight any relevant experience you have, whether it’s teaching, tutoring, or simply enjoying conversations with others.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get back to you quickly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bristol SU Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the role of a Volunteer ESOL Conversation Leader. Understand the goals of the conversation club and the types of topics you might discuss. This will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness to contribute.
✨Show Your Passion for Community Learning
Express your genuine interest in helping others improve their English skills. Share any relevant experiences you have, whether it's teaching, tutoring, or simply engaging with diverse communities. This will show that you’re not just looking for a role, but that you truly care about making a difference.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Think about how you would handle different situations that might arise during a conversation session. For example, how would you encourage shy participants to speak up? Being ready with examples will showcase your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training process, the types of topics typically covered, or how volunteers can create new discussion themes. This shows your eagerness to engage and grow within the role.