Beress Vandepeer has always had a passion for helping migrants learn English, but it wasn’t until this year that she decided to do something about it.
The 60-year-old Tarneit resident, who has helped many friends master the English language, decided to get her TESOL – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages – qualification earlier this year.
Now, she volunteers two days a week with AMES Werribee.
One of those days is spent helping a woman learn English one-on-one in the Chinese migrant’s home; the other is helping a class of people at the Werribee headquarters.
“I’ve helped friends who are speakers of other languages with their English, but I wanted to do it properly and learn how to be a more effective teacher,” Ms Vandepeer said.
“I think I’ve enjoyed doing this more than I’ve enjoyed any paid work; it’s much more satisfying. I wish I’d figured that out years ago.”
AMES is on the hunt for more volunteer tutors from across the Wyndham area, particularly Werribee, Hoppers Crossing, Point Cook, and even as far as Laverton and Altona.
Free training is provided.
Ms Vandepeer advised potential volunteers not to hesitate in signing up.
“If you’re interested in English and love people, it’s an ideal thing to volunteer for. It’s really enjoyable.”
For more information, contact Katherine on 8744 0011 or coccolik@ames.net.au
