‘’NEVER doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.’’

Wise words spoken, and yet so true; by volunteering to do something in your community, especially with the youth of today, can really help define oneself as a good example of citizenship and teamwork.

Even small community jobs, such as get together recycling groups, EVERYONE, can generate a beneficial impact.

Recently, I’d managed to interview a student, who himself is working towards achieving an admirable feat amongst his community and borough. Kieran Patel, a Year 12 student from Ilford County High School for Boys, utilises his own admiration for maths and teaches younger children in the hope of benefitting them in the subject.

Having discoursed through a brief interview, I found out why he chose to take part in this particular field of volunteer work, and whether it has inspired him to undertake further volunteering in the future!

 

So, what is it you actually do?
‘Well, I volunteer with a close friend of mine, Jamie Mantzouridis at Glade Primary School. It so happened to be the one I attended too!
I teach maths to Year 3 students, but I’ve also had the privilege of teaching Year 1 and 2 pupils too. It really drove up my respect for teachers, as you have to maintain a level of patience with energetic children, who unfortunately have very low attention spans. There is a massive jump in maturity as you see their transition develop from KS1 through to KS2.'

Why do you do it?
'I’m studying maths and further maths for A Level, and I had developed a passion for it from a young age, starting at Glade Primary School! In a sense, I really felt that I owed something back to them.
Working at Glade brings back my childhood memories walking through those school halls, and the nostalgia brings to mind how far I’ve come since I was a pupil at the school. I really do cherish those days!'

When do you undertake this volunteering?
'Jamie and I carry it out each Thursday afternoon. We found that this was the only day that could suit our already hectic A Level schedules, haha!'

What do you feel that YOU have learnt from the experience?
'Hmm, I’ve definitely learnt to be more patient and perseverant with people, as you always have to keep the attention of all the children, and at times, it seemed impossible.
Kids need to interact to learn, and through all sorts of activities, I find myself having fun too!
Especially when concerning maths; understanding a topic and then being able to teach it, are two VERY different things. The difference is ludicrous! I had underestimated this before.
Strangely enough, one of the greatest challenges was adapting my speech to suit a younger audience. I was teaching children about bar charts, and they didn’t understand the simple word ‘data’. You need to use more words to get your point across!'

How do you feel it benefitted the younger children?
'It’s different to what they usually have. It’s in smaller groups, which really helps with team skills; so it’s more interactive and taught on a friendlier level. As it is a first name basis, I feel the children are more comfortable learning with people closer to their own age.
I enjoyed the experience, and reading their work was also great. It was a good feeling knowing that their answers were correct, that you helped them achieve.'

So, has this inspired you to take up more opportunities with volunteering in the future?
'Definitely.
During my summer holidays, I will go on a ‘Projects Abroad’ scheme. I’d be volunteering in Thailand to help with sea life activities, such as cleaning up the reefs. This area interested me, as I’m close to becoming a qualified diver!
I’ve always been drawn to more exotic places, and this would provide a once in a lifetime adventure, where I’d be able to pass and share knowledge of coral reefs and the local environment with Thai children. Who would pass up such an opportunity?!
I want to extend my horizons, not to just benefit my own community, but on a more global scale.'

Would you suggest people do volunteering work, locally or abroad?
'Of course! It’s suitable to everyone, and there are no limitations. You can work in whatever feels suits you best as a person.
I feel self improved, and it has been and will continue to be a thrilling journey!'

So, as Kieran has suggested, why don’t you look up local projects that you can participate in, in your own community?

Or maybe you feel daring, and could snap up the chance to do it abroad!
Whichever path you follow, volunteering work is sure to benefit everyone, and it doesn’t come at a cost either.

‘’A volunteer leader's personal passion for the group's mission is contagious and it motivates.’’