Seven years ago, Stephen decided he wanted to do something meaningful with his time and help others. Drawing on his experience teaching English in Thailand for ten years, he chose to volunteer with English Language Partners. Over the years, he has been matched with about four different learners as a home tutor, spending an hour each week helping them improve their English.
At first, Stephen was looking to fill a gap in his life, but as the weeks passed, he found himself forming deep relationships and friendships with the people he was teaching.
Similarly, Donna signed up to be a home tutor with English Language Partners in Waikato after several years of volunteering in Auckland. Growing up surrounded by teachers, it was only natural for Donna to find herself teaching English one-on-one. However, over time, she realised that individual tutoring wasn’t quite the right fit for her, and instead, she began leading group sessions. These weekly classes, attended by 15–20 learners, have been incredibly rewarding—especially seeing their confidence grow.
For both Donna and Stephen, volunteering with English Language Partners has become a part of their week that they genuinely look forward to. Stephen describes the experience as a privilege. He has learned so much from his time with his learners—teaching them, listening to them, and witnessing their growth. The real joy comes in seeing them succeed.
A standout moment for Stephen was helping a learner who had suffered a work injury and wanted to sit his driver’s licence test. Through tailored lessons and Stephen’s support, he was able to achieve this goal.
For Donna, a highlight has been watching her class share a cup of tea together—where the only rule is that they must speak English. As the course progresses, their confidence grows, friendships form, and before long, the connections extend beyond the classroom.
Stephen and Donna are perfect examples of how giving a small amount of time each week can have a direct and lasting impact—not just on their learners, but on their learners’ families and communities.
English Language Partners is an organisation that supports new Kiwis in developing their English skills so they can participate fully in life and live independently. Right now, across Waikato, people are waiting to be matched with a home tutor—and we need your help!
When you choose to volunteer, English Language Partners provides full training, equipping you with the skills and confidence to teach. No experience in teaching or foreign languages is required—just a willingness to learn, an open mind, and an open heart.
And Donna’s advice for getting started? Don’t hesitate—your help is needed!
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or know someone who would be, please contact Natasha from English Language Partners for more information. Registration is required.
For inquiries, please email: natasha.stephens@englishlanguage.org.nz
Phone: 07 853 2188 / 027 562 2991
