Job Description: Volunteer Teaching Mentor
Project Overview:
The Teacher Empowerment Program aims to address teacher shortages and improve the quality of education in high-need schools within the Batticaloa West Education Zone. We have selected and trained 8 Volunteer teachers from the community in and around the Eravurpattu Zonal Division of the Batticaloa West Education Zone. They have undergone intensive months of pre-service and have commenced teaching in 5 high-need schools in the above-mentioned division. They also teach in the afternoons at the Child Action Lanka Child Development Centre in Illupadichennai, Batticaloa.
Now that the teachers are placed in schools, they require further in-service training to enhance their teaching skills and community leadership abilities. As part of the program, we are recruiting two volunteer mentors to provide support and guidance to these teachers, facilitating their professional growth and development.
Context Overview
The Eravurpattu division consists of 17 schools out of which 12 are considered to be very difficult and 5 difficult schools with struggling performance. In 2021 the Eravurpattu division had 66 children drop out of schools. In this Zone alone there is a shortage of 28 teachers mainly in primary education, science, Maths, ICT and English. Out of which are teachers are filling 8 vacancies.
The areas that these children come from are rural and their families are mainly from farming communities. Therefore, these teachers are young, bright and committed teachers who have the leadership potential to make a difference in these communities.
Role Overview:
The role of the volunteer mentor is to provide ongoing support and guidance to teachers participating in the Teacher Empowerment Program. Mentors will moderate and conduct learning circles, encourage self-reflection, and provide advice based on the challenges teachers face in the classroom.
The volunteer mentor will be required to set aside a minimum of an hour to two hours per week to meet on Zoom and facilitate a planned discussion around supporting these teachers in their teaching.
Primary Objectives:
- Conduct and moderate learning circles to facilitate peer learning and collaboration among teachers.
- Develop and implement activities or exercises that support continuous teacher learning and development.
- Introduce new teaching methodologies, resources, and tools that will be beneficial to the group of teachers.
Qualifying Factors:
- Proficiency in Tamil is essential to moderate effective communication with teachers.
- Previous experience as a seasoned teacher with a track record of earning respect from students and colleagues.
- Patience and empathy are crucial qualities for guiding and supporting teachers through their professional development journey.
- Ability to encourage teachers to adopt innovative teaching methods and perspectives.
- Extensive teaching experience and deep insight into educational practices that can be shared with the group.
- Consistent availability and commitment to the role of a mentor.
If you meet the above criteria and are passionate about supporting teachers in their professional growth, we encourage you to apply for the volunteer mentor position. Your contribution will make a significant impact on the quality of education and the overall success of the Teacher Empowerment Program in the Batticaloa West Education Zone.
