School Speaker

Committed to a humanist approach to life? Enthusiastic and a good communicator? Keen to help young people learn about humanism? Then you could volunteer as a Humanists UK school speaker!

Would you like to know more?

If you’re wondering whether school speaking might be for you, or thinking of volunteering but have some questions, why not come along to one of our Introduction to School Speaking sessions? These short, informal events are a great chance to find out what school speakers do and how you can get involved – and to hear from active speakers about their experiences and have your questions answered.

Who are Humanists UK school speakers?

School speakers are trained volunteers, whose professional approach to visits and supporting students’ learning is appreciated by teachers around the country. Speakers come from a wide range of backgrounds and life stages, and we aim to build a network of speakers as diverse as the school audiences we serve.

A school speaker needs to have personal knowledge and experience of humanism. They must also be a current member of Humanists UK (or be prepared to join), and agree to abide by the School Speaker Code of Practice when they complete their training.

What do school speakers do?

The role is very varied! As a speaker, your host teacher may ask you to work with a small group, a class, or a whole year group. You might give a classroom talk, lead an assembly, or contribute to a panel discussion.

Being a school speaker

Speakers are supported by the Understanding Humanism team, which matches speakers with teachers’ requests. Visits take place in school time and speakers often fit them alongside other work and family commitments. We ask that speakers do a minimum of three schools visits per year, and be willing to participate in top-up training from time to time.

Skills

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, particularly those currently under-represented in education and in our network. We are also interested to hear from applications able to deliver talks in Welsh.

We are looking for:

• People who can communicate to children in an engaging way
• Good communicators
• People who are enthusiastic about using their knowledge and personal experience to help young people learn

How can I become a school speaker?

To become a Humanists UK school speaker, you need to take and pass our free one-day training course. Courses are held quarterly, on a Saturday (online at present), and led by experienced and supportive trainers.

Introduction sessions are held online and are free to attend. We’ll be running more of these sessions in the new year – dates coming soon. We’re looking forward to meeting you!

Be first to hear about future introduction sessions and school speaker training courses by registering your interest today.