With so many layers of history and human occupation on the Fulham Palace site, we are a rich brew of learning opportunity for all.
As you know, FP runs a formal education service facilitating regular visits from schools, and also lively and informal family programmes throughout term time, half term and holidays. There are workshops and programmes for people of all ages such as free family drop-ins where children and adults alike can dress up like a Viking, a Tudor Lord or a Victorian house maid – I've seen it myself on Sundays – people really get a window into past times and it's a lot of fun.
Volunteer Learning Assistants help run these workshops and activities for schools, families, young people and other educational groups, and make a really valuable contribution towards promoting learning in the community.
At the moment we are looking for more Volunteer Learning Assistants, particularly to work with children and school programmes. No experience is necessary but previous work with children is an advantage. There are two main areas of volunteering: those prepared to help the freelance teachers who provide the actual learning sessions, and those prepared to supervise pre-organised activities by themselves. An interest in history and the arts is an advantage, though not essential. Enjoyment of the company of children and families is important, and support and training is provided.
School sessions take place during the week, and volunteers are needed to cover either morning or afternoon sessions. Family activities tend to run during school holidays or weekends. Other workshops will vary as to timing but volunteers are given notice ahead of time.
Anyone who is interested or who knows someone who would be good for this role should contact our Learning Officer Lettie McKie: lettie.mckie@fulhampalace.org