Reading Oasis - Social Impact Studio
Reading Oasis - Social Impact Studio
Organisation
Social Impact Studio
Description
Reading Oasis is a programme that aims to give every child the opportunity to love reading. Teaming up with Catalytic Foundation, one of the world’s largest not-for-profit organisations, Reading Oasis in Dunedin is the only programme of its kind in the South Island.
Student volunteers from the University of Otago visit local schools and create an ‘oasis’ in sharing new books and furniture to spread the love of reading with pupils from Years 1-3.
Reading Oasis, Semester 1, 2026
There are two streams, one on Tuesday from 11:15 am to 12:45 pm and one on Thursday from 11:15 am to 12:45 pm. The training and session dates are:
TUESDAYS
Training: 24 February
Session 1: 3 March
Session 2: 10 March
Session 3: 17 March
Session 4: 24 March (followed by a 2 week break)
Session 5: 14 April
Session 6: 21 April
Session 7: 28 April
Session 8: 5 May
Session 9: 12 May
THURSDAYS
Training: 26 February
Session 1: 5 March
Session 2: 12 March
Session 3: 19 March
Session 4: 26 March (followed by a 2 week break)
Session 5: 16 April
Session 6: 23 April
Session 7: 30 April
Session 8: 7 May
Session 9: 14 May
If you have any further questions feel free to flick an email to volunteer@otago.ac.nz.
Requirements
A clear reading voice and English fluency
You love to read!
Ability to maintain personal boundaries and act in a responsible manner
Belief in the potential of young people
Willing listener
Able to ask for help when needed
Tolerance and openness to different world views
Sense of humour and fun
A background check via the Proctor’s office is required for this role.
Time commitment
We do require that you only sign up if you can make this regular weekly commitment. That is you are free for ALL the Tuesdays of ALL the Thurdays that Reading Oasis runs for, as the children will be expecting you!
Interview and Training
You will need to be available for training as per the dates above.
This role also requires a background check via the Proctor's office. Any concerns regarding this please email us at volunteer@otago.ac.nz.
