Volunteers sought to teach English

Strong demand in the Mahurangi area has prompted a charitable organisation to host sessions for volunteers willing to teach English as a second language (ESOL).

English Language New Zealand  manager Andrew Barron says the organisation has been made aware of more than 20 non-native English speakers in the Warkworth area who are eager to secure tuition locally.

He anticipates once English Language New Zealand become better known in the area, others eager to improve their language skills will want to take advantage of the organisation’s services.

Volunteers travel to learners’ homes to provide free one-on-one support.

Mr Barron says the ideal volunteer is someone who is passionate about helping others and wants to give their time to make a difference in the life of someone in their community.

“They may not have been born in New Zealand themselves, but have been able to fit into society and want to share their knowledge,” he says.

The course begins with a one-hour group interview on Friday, February 19, at the Warkworth Town Hall, at 10am. Training continues on Fridays in March and May.

Info: andrew.barron@englishlanguage.org.nz