Jaidyn Kennedy
EdConnect volunteer Robyn Martin is celebrating five years of volunteering in education.
Ms Martin has been volunteering in a learning support role since 2019, starting at Little River Primary School in 2021.
Ms Martin was drawn to EdConnect because she loved the idea of helping little ones out and wanted to stay active in the community.
“Little River Primary is a lovely small school, and all of the staff are kind and welcoming,” she said.
Volunteering three hours every Wednesday with the prep-year 2 class, she often helps the teacher with daily activities including numeracy and listening to the student’s reading practise- a task that brings out her passion.
“The young ones in prep and grades 1 and 2 like you to hear them read. I love their eagerness to have a go at sounding out words that they are practising,” she said.
Teachers being busy is a surprise to none, so students appreciate having a helping hand to attend to them.
“The students like the extra attention I give them, and I like that they come and ask for help if they have trouble understanding the task,” Ms Martin said.
Principal Gavin Nelson praised Ms Martin’s dedication.
“Robyn is an asset to our school, she is part of the school community, we know she is a volunteer, but we see her as much more than that.”
Ms Martin’s message to prospective volunteers is clear.
“If you are thinking about volunteering, don’t wait! It is very rewarding. I really love it and am so glad I joined.”
EdConnect has nearly 1000 volunteers in Australia that assist 16,750 across more than 240 schools and are calling out for more.
