Crucial learning program on lookout for volunteers

One of The Smith Family’s most important programs, the Learning Hubs, is on the lookout for eight volunteers to help out at two of its Central Coast clubs, located in the northern and southern areas of the Coast.

The program, like a homework club, runs out of school hours for students experiencing disadvantage to help them keep up with their peers in the classroom.

Poverty can play a significant role in a student’s education.

Last year’s NAPLAN showed students from low socio-economic households were 4.5 years behind in reading compared to those from high socio-economic families.

The Smith Family supports 67,000 students experiencing disadvantage nationally through the flagship Learning for Life program with more than 1,200 of those students located on the Central Coast.

Learning for Life provides financial, extra learning and personal support to those students with Learning Clubs a vital aspect of that extra learning support.

Due to child protection protocols, specific volunteer to student ratios must be adhered to so if there is a shortage of volunteers, classes can’t run at capacity and students miss out.

Existing Central Coast volunteers like Kathy Wyborn, who is in her ninth year as a volunteer with the Learning Club, said the most rewarding part was attending the weekly sessions with the children and being involved with their activities.

“It was mentioned at my Probus Club one meeting that they were looking for volunteers, so I contacted The Smith Family and have been enjoying the volunteering ever since,” she said.

“Even though it is only one hour a week we attend the schools, the staff are very appreciative of our attendance at the Learning Club and often speak of the many benefits which the children receive from our attendance.

“Each year I find a certain connection with a number of students and I look forward to watching the progress of these students whether it is in maths, reading or self-confidence.”

NSW/ACT General Manager Fiona Coluccio said Learning Clubs were one of The Smith Family’s most significant evidence-based programs in terms of impact.

“The extra support provided to those students experiencing disadvantage through Learning Clubs is crucial to helping them keep up with their peers and remain engaged with school,” she said.

“Without volunteers, Learning Clubs simply would not exist.

“Volunteers are the glue that keeps Learning Clubs together.

“I urge anyone with time to volunteer and a passion for education, to consider becoming a Learning Club volunteer.”

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer can email volunteer@thesmithfamily.com.au or call 1300 397 730.