Power of 5 Case Study #5

Name: Alastair Boyd

Age: 16

Sciennes Primary School PTA is a football club for 7-12 year olds. They play in league matches every Saturday during the season and also meet for training once or twice a week. Although parents support the club, especially in the early years, not all are prepared to get involved with training and coaching on a regular basis. Some groups needed extra support.

Background: When did you start volunteering? Why did you decide to volunteer? Why did you choose this particular organisation?

I started volunteering in my 6 th year at school because I wanted to improve my cv. I have volunteered to teach in China next year and was also looking at ways to improve my communication skills and self-confidence. I used to play for Sciennes Primary and live close to the football pitch where they train

Voluntary Role: What did you do? Why did you do it? What did you get out of it? What skills did you develop? What was the best part? What difficulties did you face in the role?

Volunteering to help with football training is very enjoyable. The other coaches have given me a lot of support and encouragement. I have completed an SFA coaching certificate.

Volunteering can be challenging. At first it was difficult to work in front of parents and getting very young children to take instruction was impossible. Most six year olds just run round in a pack chasing the ball. I now help coach a very successful team of eleven year olds

Future: Are you planning to get involved in more voluntary work? Will you be looking for a job which is similar to the work in your volunteering experience?

I have volunteered toteach English in a state school in China next year and coaching has helped me prepare for this challenge.

Sum up your Volunteering Experience in one word:

Great.