SPARK

Click here to read the SPARK Human Rights Submission.

Click here to download the SPARK volunteer registration form.

SPARK Volunteers needed!

Click here for more information on becoming a volunteer and register your interest.
 
SPARK provides curriculum, social and cultural support to newly arrived refugee children and their families through selected primary schools in Central Western Sydney.
SPARK aims to:

•   aid refugee settlement
•   raise mainstream community awareness about refugees
•   facilitate chances for social contact and mutual appreciation between refugee and mainstream communities.

SPARK has been implemented in primary schools with significant numbers of refugee students. The program is open to all newly arrived refugee students and their families attending the selected schools. SPARK is supported by the Catholic Education Office, Sydney and Parramatta and NSW Department of Education and Training.

SPARK responds to individual school needs and is comprised of several programs, which take a holistic approach to aiding in refugee children’s settlement.
 
Volunteering for SPARK
 
SPARK Volunteers see the difference they make in the lives of the children they assist. By giving less than two hours a week, you can help make the difference in the life of a child who is adjusting to a new country, new language, new school. Be part of giving a hand up…..
 
SPARK is looking for volunteers who can spare approximately 1.5 hours (3 – 4.30pm) a week at schools in Central Western Sydney. Volunteers are involved in assisting the primary school aged children with their homework and English skills, providing general practical advice and assistance to parents/ guardians and helping run creative and recreational activities. SPARK trains volunteers four times a year in February, April, July and October.
 
By volunteering with SPARK you will be part of a very rewarding program that provides much needed assistance to refugee children and their families. No teaching qualifications or experience are required, as training is provided. We are looking for people who are enthusiastic, friendly and patient and who love working with children.
 
If you are interested in volunteering for SPARK, please click here to download the SPARK application form and return it to the SPARK Volunteer Recruitment and Support Officer or if you are interested in finding out more please send an email or call us.
 
SPARK Volunteer Recruitment and Support Officer
PO Box 5
Petersham NSW 2049
Ph:  (02) 9568 0280
Fax: (02) 9568 6199
Email: spark@vinnies.org.au
 
 
Bright Sparks

Bright Sparks is an after school homework and activities club for refugee children in Kindy to Year Six. It is run by teachers and local community volunteers. Children develop confidence in themselves as they are supported to understand and complete school work, enjoy creative and recreational activities and interact and develop relationships.
 
Little Sparks

Little Sparks is a child minding group for pre-school refugee children who have siblings attending Bright Sparks. Professional child care is provided so the parents/ guardians are able to attend the Family Group. Little Sparks is aimed at introducing the children to the school environment and to develop their early learning skills through games and activities.
 
Family Group

The Family Group is run concurrently with Bright Sparks and Little Sparks, so parents/ guardians can practice English, gain support from each other and volunteers, and establish relationships with teachers, other parents/ guardians and community members.
 
Community Forums

Community Forums link community members from the schools holding SPARK to join together to discuss topics such as housing, parenting, education and nutrition. Presenters from service providers will deliver information on settlement issues.
 
Mainstream Community Awareness

An important element of this program is raising mainstream community awareness about refugees and especially the new members of the school community. This increases knowledge, understanding, promotes acceptance and stimulates interaction and mutual appreciation within the local community.

More Information?

If you are interested in volunteering for SPARK you can access more details and also register by clicking here.

You can also contact the SPARK Team by email on SPARK@vinnies.org.au or by calling 9568 0280. We look forward to hearing from you.