What is the Classroom Helper Program?

The Classroom Helpers’ Program is a program designed for teachers and parents to work together to assist children in the development of Reading, Writing and Numeracy skills.

How else can I get involved at NMPS?

We welcome parents, carers and family members to volunteer across many different areas of the school. This includes the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program, school camps, excursions and events and swimming. We are also very keen to have parents become ‘expert presenters’ in class.

How to become a classroom helper or volunteer?

Step 1: Organise your Working with Children Check Clearance (WWCC)It is a requirement that all school volunteers have a valid Working with Children Clearance to work with students. The Working with Children Check (WWCC) is a screening process for asse...

Frequently Asked Questions

Q) I have applied for my Working With Children Clearance but the processing time is a few weeks, can I start volunteering?A) No, for all classroom based volunteering, a finalised WWCC card is required to be provided. The number confirming receipt of submission is no longer sufficient.Q) Do I need to go through this process, if I am only helping on an excursion or camp? A) Yes, North Melbourne Primary School requires all volunteers to have a valid Working with Children Clearance when working with students.

How do I know what to do?

At NMPS, we offer a training session for Classroom Helpers, which focuses on the roles you may undertake as a classroom helper. In addition to providing strategies for supporting children in the classroom. Classroom training sessions are held annually. This training is optional, however recommended in ensuring you feel comfortable to support within the school.Teachers will always give you guidance on how they would like you to support the students in the class.

Strategies to use when volunteering in the classroom

Literacy

The teacher will direct you to the activities you will be supporting, they may include:Reading:Comprehension:Supporting Early Writers:Engage your child’s interests in literacy

Maths

Below are some of the materials students will use in the classroom:Making, Counting, Drawing and Talking Numbers:Using classroom materials and games, provide plenty of opportunity for students to:Languages such as plus, minus, equals and their corresponding symbols (+, - , =) are not introduced until the later stages of Prep or Year 1.Language to use Maths:4 and 2 is 63 and 2 more make 56 is 3 and 3 more2 and 2 is 4, and 1 more is 55 take away 3 is 24 teddies take away 2 teddies, how many are left?How many teddies are there altogether?3 teddies and 3 teddies more make how many altogether?2 + 2 What is the sum?5 - 3 What is the difference?2 x 2 What is the product?8 ÷ 2 What is the quotient?Supporting students in 3-6: