Deakin students volunteer at Corio Primary School

Seven Deakin students have joined forces with Bethany Community Support Service to help Corio Primary School students get a good start with their homework. The weekly program known as the Homework Club has been operational since the third term and is available to Grade 5 and 6 students.

The Bachelor of Education student volunteers spend 45 minutes assisting the Corio students to complete their homework and then spend the last 15 minutes playing educational games.

Mr. Don Royce, Deakin University's Professional Experience Officer, understood that the program had been introduced after schools in the Northern district spoke to Bethany about the possibility ofassisting the children with their homework.

"Bethany approached Deakin University asking if any Bachelor of Education students could help," he said. "The seven Deakin students in their 3rd and final year of the course received further training from Bethany in relation to the agency and to the specific program that they would be working in."

Julie Makin, Corio Primary School's Assistant Principal said that the Homework Club was a great success. "We have seen not only a greater mastery of numeracy and literacy skills but also a change in outlook and confidence from the students," Ms Makin said.

Kate Barlow, Bethany's Executive Manager in Community Options said Bethany had 3 schools implementing the Homework program. "The high level of interest shown by the students, parents and teachers is an indication of the program's success," she said.

Mr. Royce said the Homework program at Corio Primary School would continue with the current Deakin volunteers until the end of the year. "Whether Corio School could offer more places to students would depend on the number of volunteers available," he explained. Mr. Royce praised the commitment shown by the Deakin students.