MICHAEL SOBELL SINAI SCHOOL
The retired sales assistant has volunteered at Michael Sobell Sinai School, in Kenton, for the past seven years
Why Michael Sobell Sinai?
When I retired, I wanted to give something back to the community. All four of my grandchildren either attended or are still at Michael Sobell Sinai and my son was previously a governor there. I was aware that the school needed helpers to support children with reading and writing and thought that this would be a good way of supporting the school.
Have you volunteered elsewhere?
Many years ago I helped establish the kindergarten at Belmont Synagogue. I also volunteered with Miyad, the Jewish helpline.
What does your volunteering involve?
I assist the Year 1 pupils, encouraging the children to raise their standards and helping them improve their literacy skills through reading tasks. I help almost 90 children to read each week.
What do you most enjoy about being a volunteer?
I love being with the children and very much feel like I am part of the school’s staff. I have been made to feel most welcome and the school has always provided valuable support and advice when required.
What is your most memorable volunteering moment?
One of the most wonderful moments was when all the Year 1 children made a scrapbook with little messages and pictures inside thanking me for all the hard work. This was incredibly rewarding.