Literacy Specialist (Voluntary role)

Role description for Literacy Specialist (Voluntary role)
"It’s been a life-changing experience. Last week I read a book to my grandson. I never read to my children because I couldn’t.” Peter, from Read Easy Poole

Read Easy provides free, confidential, one to one reading coaching for adults who struggle with reading, through a network of volunteer groups. Read Easy groups are changing the lives of individual adults across the country by providing them with the support they need to learn to read, and in turn opening doors for them to all sorts of new opportunities in life. You can read about the difference Read Easy makes here on our website.

Outline of the Literacy Specialist role
The Literacy Specialist plays a crucial role in ensuring that everyone who comes to Read Easy to improve their reading gets the support that they need to succeed.
How we will support you
You will be provided with a Literacy Specialist Information Pack and the Management Team Handbook, policies, training/induction and guidance specifically needed for this role, including access to support from a Read Easy UK Regional Adviser, via your Team Leader. You will also be invited to Read Easy UK’s regional forums and annual conference which give volunteers an opportunity for networking with those from other groups.
What you will be doing
● Providing literacy support to the Coordinator and Reading Coaches.
● Visiting reading pairs to advise on specific situations and challenges that Readers and Coaches may be facing.
● Contributing to the content, delivery and organisation of coach meetings.
● Creating a ‘Resources Box’ containing a range of useful activities and resources that Coaches can use to support and extend their Readers’ learning.
● Assembling ‘Starter Packs’ for Coaches and Readers, using guidance provided.
● Attending Management Team meetings, typically every 6-8 weeks.
The Skills you will need
● A background in teaching reading/literacy (preferably, but not necessarily, with adults).
● An understanding of the difference between the needs of adults and children in the learning process.
● A knowledge of the range of teaching resources that are available for adults, or awillingness to research them.

● Reasonable confidence in using IT
● The ability to use initiative and work independently
● A willingness to abide by Read easy policies and procedures
● An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for and offer support to the Team
● A non-judgemental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity, so that you can make everyone feel valued and included
● Energy and enthusiasm with an average of two hours a week to commit to the role, ideally some during the day.
What is in it for you?
● Use your knowledge and skills as part of a team to support Reader achievement
● Meet and work collaboratively with new people
● Be active and engaged, adding value to your local community
● Receive outstanding Reading Coach Training

Interested?
If you think you can offer the time, skills, and experience that we are looking for and would be interested in taking up this role, please contact the person who sent you this role description.
Please note: All Read Easy volunteer roles are subject to Safer Recruitment procedures which include verification of identity and two references, and eligibility for Management Team roles in line with Charity Commission regulations for trustees.