News

Nashmil’s Experience as Volunteer Primary School Student Assistant

3rd March 2025

Volunteer role and organisation: 

I have participated in various volunteer roles here in the UK. For example:

• 1. Festival Support: I volunteered at festivals, where my role was primarily as a helper, assisting with different tasks.
• 2. Big Yellow Storage (Brent Cross): I regularly volunteered here, preparing care packages for children separated from their families. This was a biweekly activity (every other Sunday).
• 3. Current Role: I have completed a 6-hour training in the UK to volunteer in primary schools to assist students with their education.

Additionally, in Iran, I have experience in teaching and providing educational support. During my free time, such as on holidays or summer, I volunteered to help children who were struggling academically and needed assistance.

Please tell us a bit about yourself, including your hobbies, profession, and interests  

I moved to the UK about four years ago. I am married and don’t have children. I completed my university studies in Iran and worked as a primary school teacher for about 12-13 years.

During my free time, I volunteered with organizations like the Red Crescent (similar to the Red Cross) and helped students with their studies.

I enjoy reading books, watching movies, and traveling. I used to have a small library where I collected books from my favorite authors. I also love visiting peaceful places like parks.

What motivated you to become a volunteer?

My main motivation for volunteering is my passion for teamwork and helping others. I volunteered in various activities back in Iran as well. I’ve always wanted to share my knowledge and skills to assist others.

When I came to the UK, after a year, I joined a volunteer group and took advantage of the opportunities here to contribute. My motivation is to be involved in group activities and make a positive impact by helping others.

How did you find out about the volunteering role?

I was aware that volunteering opportunities exist all over the world. I had already volunteered in Iran, so I knew about such opportunities. When I first arrived in the UK, I wasn’t sure where to go for volunteering roles, especially in my first year. I did try to register through my college, but it didn’t work out, as we had moved from Blackpool to London.

Once we settled in London, I registered through my college again, and they guided me on how to sign up for volunteering roles.

Tell us about your volunteering roles

I really enjoy volunteering because I like to help in any role where I can contribute, especially if I have the skills or knowledge to make a difference.

In my volunteering role, I’ve helped students as a teaching assistant, supporting them with their learning. I received training related to teaching assistance, and I also took a course in the UK to improve my skills in this area. For other roles, there was no specific training, but I did whatever was needed, always trying to help as much as I could.

What I enjoy most is being able to support others and contribute to the community.

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a volunteer?

My advice to anyone considering volunteering, is to try and contribute in any field or skill you have. Even if your time is limited, you can still help during weekends, holidays, or when you don’t have travel plans.

Volunteering is one of the best ways to make a positive impact, whether it’s helping someone or participating in a project. Personally, I’ve found that it’s incredibly rewarding, even if it’s just small acts of assistance. Volunteering not only helps others but also brings personal satisfaction, and you never know how much of a difference you can make.

Can you sum up your experience in three words?*

1. Helpful 2. Rewarding 3. Meaningful

If you would like to find a new volunteering experience, or would like to see how volunteering can work for you, email us on enquiry@volunteeringbarnet.org.uk or you can search our database here to find your perfect role!