Literacy Specialist

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 on our website.

The Literacy Specialist plays a key role in helping to ensure that everyone who comes to Read Easy to improve their reading gets the support that they need to succeed. The Literacy Specialist works with the co-ordinators to support coaches and readers throughout their reading journey.  

The role:

●     Providing literacy support to the Coordinators and Reading Coaches.

●     Contributing to the successful running of the Cheltenham & Gloucester group through attendance and participation in our monthly Management Team meetings.

●     Creating and maintaining ‘Resources Boxes’ in local libraries containing a range of useful activities and resources that Coaches can use to support and extend their Readers’ learning. 

●     Researching and developing further reading aids and resources for coaches and readers

●     Supporting the co-ordinators to resolve issues  and challenges that individual Readers and Coaches may be facing. 

●     Attending meetings with co-ordinators.

●     Contributing to the content and delivery  of coach meetings.

Your skills:

●     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 a willingness 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.

Support for you:

We will provide you with a full induction into the role, including high quality training and online and printed reference materials. You will have support and guidance from our team leader and co-ordinators throughout your time with us, and access to support from a Read Easy UK Regional Adviser. 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.