Through our year-long after-school programme, we develop the literacy, confidence and perseverance of children aged 9-13, who are falling behind in class and have fewer opportunities in their personal lives, so that they can succeed at school and beyond.
Children join us in our fantastical, pirate-themed space in Hackney to practise their reading and writing. We also publish their work in the real world so that every Young Pirate finishes the programme a published author, journalist and film star!
As a Volunteer Crewmate, your role is to come along to our sessions in Hackney and help children practise their reading and writing, 1:1 and in small groups.
Sessions are led and managed by our staff team, which means you can dedicate the whole time you’re with us to providing direct support to the children.
You will:
- receive full training.
- help children practise reading and writing by providing constant encouragement, positivity and celebration of their achievements.
- take part in games and have fun!
- be invited to celebration events with the children to see the difference that you’ve made.
We offer:
- employment references, for volunteers who have completed 12 sessions or more
- work placements for students.
- Tempo Time Credits – for every session you volunteer, you will be rewarded with credits to redeem against days out, trips and extra-curricular opportunities for your spare time.
- socials and extra opportunities.
We ask volunteers to give just two afternoons every half-term, although you are welcome to volunteer more if you choose to!
Sessions run every weekday from 3:45 to 6:45 p.m. and you will have the flexibility to select which sessions you would like to attend.
No experience is required to become a volunteer – just a desire to help children develop their reading and writing skills! Full training is provided.
All we ask is that you:
- are aged 16+
- must be a UK resident, and are able to commute to our Hackney ship
- complete a DBS check (we cover the cost of this).
Similar Opportunities
Seeking enthusiastic volunteers for our London Marathon Cheer Points on Sunday 27 April 2025.
Join us on our Spring Project and get to know our friendly service users who have autism or a learning disability as you all take part in fun and challenging workshops including sports and games, arts and crafts, drama, cooking and enjoying a day out
Bring your photography skills to race day to snap our fundraisers and volunteers in image form. Join us at our cheer point to get the best reaction from our participants and help us to make sure the experience is one they will never forget!
