English Language Training Intern

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster.

Developing skills and confidence in speaking, reading, and writing in English is crucial for new arrivals' success in Richmond. These skills expand resource accessibility, employment opportunities, and much more. The English Language Training Intern will assist the Adult Education Specialist in the planning and provision of English language training classes to the refugees and immigrants that IRC Richmond serves.

Learning Objectives: The English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Intern will:

• Learn how to manage classes and supporting services within the established requirements, to provide the best possible service to vulnerable populations.
• Develop critical thinking skills, clients service skills, and intercultural education and social work skills.
• Learn about the IRC locally and globally, the available services to refugees and ORR-eligible clients in Richmond, Virginia.

Responsibilities:

• Assist IRC staff with the enrollment, coordination, and implementation of classes, including:
• Contacting students to confirm their availability to attend classes.
• Navigating client barriers to education.
• Differentiating and scaffolding instruction to students individually or in small groups.
• Communicating with local stakeholders and adult education services to connect students to appropriate classes.
• Support teachers in the preparation of the student materials for the classes.
• Coordinate with volunteers to ensure proper coverage is in place for adult education classes, including childcare volunteers; cover the childcare volunteer role as needed.
• Collect data to support educational initiatives and encourage student success.
• Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy, and practice sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of clients by respecting their beliefs and values.
• Other support as needed.

Qualifications:

• Undergraduate or graduate level studies in education, social work, international relations, social sciences, or related field preferred.
• Cultural awareness of and sensitivity to vulnerable populations, and a desire to help refugees adjust to life in the U.S.
• Patience, understanding, and flexibility
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
• Effective communication skills, especially in a multicultural environment
• Engaged in learning about the IRC (mission, philosophy, global work, and local efforts) and willing to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies
• Proficiency in more than one language preferred but not required