Sarah Herbert

This volunteer work was a partnership between my school (UWCSEA) and a local school for children aged 3 to 8. To accommodate parents who needed to work longer hours, the local school extended hours for the children, allowing them to engage in new subjects and participate in play activities designed by myself and other peers, to entertain while fostering teamwork, imagination, and creativity. Throughout my time at the school, I developed the following skills:

• Efficiency: Executed day-to-day duties with accuracy and efficiency.
• Quick Learner: Rapidly acquired and applied new skills to enhance daily tasks, resulting in improved productivity.
• Deadline Management: Consistently delivered tasks within tight deadlines.
• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrated respect and friendliness, with a strong willingness to assist others.
• Child Interaction and Teaching: Proven ability to engage and educate children effectively.
• Organizational Skills: Regularly organized and planned lessons and activities for children during weekly sessions.
• Remote Working: Adapted to remote working and planning during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing self-management and flexibility.

I volunteered at Willing Hearts, a soup kitchen organisation where individuals and companies come together to prepare, cook, package, and deliver mass batches of food to the homeless and those in need. My involvement allowed me to understand how this organisation enhanced community spirit, fostered a sense of belonging, and developed an understanding of the local community and those within it. While also ensuring cleanliness and hygiene standards were upheld.

What I have learnt during my time volunteering:

• Community Engagement: Actively participated in daily operations, strengthening community ties and support.
• Meal Preparation: Prepared hot meals for homeless individuals, promoting a sense of belonging and care.
• Hygiene Management: Managed waste disposal to maintain cleanliness and uphold hygiene standards.
• Emotional Support: Provided compassionate support to patrons, creating a welcoming and empathetic environment.