Building Blocks Volunteer

Overview

Volunteers play a vital role in assisting GSANZ to fulfill our vision is to create an emotionally, economically and physically safe world for women and girls and families.

Building Blocks Young Parents Supported Playgroup Is funded by the Department of Social Services and delivered In partnership with the Smith Family (Communities for Children, Brimbank).

Building Blocks Playgroup aims to assist young and first time (and pregnant) young parents (25 years and under) with children aged 0-5 years In addressing isolation. By strengthening the relationships between parent and child through increased parenting skills, child health, development and school readiness knowledge, within a culturally safe and Inclusive environment.

Building Blocks is a weekly Evidence Based Playgroup implementing the Abecedarian Approach (3A) into every aspect of every session. The volunteer will assist the facilitator with duties related to the weekly session. 

Responsibilities

• The Building Blocks Playgroup Volunteer will work closely with the Facilitator to deliver a high standard Supported Playgroup by participating in reading and singing, craft activities and free play, excursions and morning tea in a safe and relaxed setting along with setting up and packing up/cleaning up.
• Morning tea preparation (Cut up fruit and put on to platters, bread and dip, plates, cups etc.)
• Room set up and pack up/clean up (eg. move tables and chairs, set up and pack up art supplies and toys, wash dishes, sweep and vacuum floors etc.)
• Help parents and children with activities
• Excursion once per term – extra hours required 9.30 am to 2.30pm

Times required:

4hrs per week. Weekly sessions each Tuesday 9.30am to 1.30pm. Playgroup runs from 10.30am to 12.30pm, but time is required to set up and pack up/clean up. (Note Building Blocks Playgroup does not operate during school holidays)

Qualifications and Experience

• Some understanding of child development would be helpful
• Be able to physically lift and move furniture, get up and down from the floor to support children’s needs etc. (Facilitator notes that it can be quite a physical role)
• Volunteer to be non-judgemental and understanding of pressures on young parents etc.
• Ability to establish rapport with families from diverse backgrounds, some with complex needs.
• Confidentiality and Privacy Is crucial.
• Reliability and commitment to attend each session is essential as the Volunteer role is an important component In delivering a well-planned and cohesive playgroup
• Facilitator will check In with Volunteer for debriefing after each session
• A current and satisfactory National Police Check
• Current Employee Working with Children’s Check (WWCC)

Position Description