Vision: Enrich lives through volunteering
Mission: Connect people and transform communities

Volunteer NZSL Instructor – Waikeria Prison

Te Awamutu
Organisation:
Waikeria Prison
Category:
Tutoring
Hours:
Both/Flexible

We’re seeking a volunteer to run beginner-friendly New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) sessions with a small group of participants.
Sessions are calm, structured, and held in a safe, supportive environment. You’ll help participants learn new signs, basic phrases, and practical communication skills, and encourage practice between sessions to build confidence and retention.

We understand that volunteering in a prison setting can feel unfamiliar at first. To help you feel comfortable and confident, the Volunteer Coordinator is happy to meet with you via Skype and arrange a guided visit to Waikeria Prison so you can see the space, ask questions, and decide if the role feels right for you. A full orientation is also provided before you begin.

A little bit about this role

  • Lead or support beginner NZSL sessions for a small group of participants
  • Adapt learning activities to suit different abilities and confidence levels
  • Encourage practice and participation to help participants build communication skills
  • Create a positive, inclusive, and respectful learning environment

This role is ideal for someone who is patient, culturally aware, and enjoys supporting people to learn new skills and gain confidence. It’s well suited to students in health, education, or social work, or anyone interested in teaching and inclusive communication.

Requirements:
  • Basic to Intermediate level of understanding of New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL).
  • A confident, mature, and responsible outlook when leading or supporting activities.
  • Ability to work respectfully within a unique and sensitive environment, following all site guidelines and values.
  • Patient, culturally aware with excellent communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, with patience, empathy, and professionalism.
  • A valid driver’s license or the ability to reliably travel to and from the site independently.

(Please Note: After six visits, all volunteers are eligible for MTA vouchers to the value of $300 - once per financial year (July-June) to assist with travel costs and recognise the time given).

A Ministry of Justice background check is required for this role.

Time commitment:
  • Sessions are 1–2 hours and can be scheduled based on your availability.
  • Time slots are anywhere between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm on weekdays.
  • Weekend option is available as well
  • Commitment is minimum 3 months, once a week.
  • If we have more interest, sessions may be offered fortnightly.

Getting started:
The first step is to express your interest by filling out the form below. We will then put you in touch directly with the organisation for more information on the role and how to proceed.

Ref: 2846

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