Class Assistant Volunteer

About Think Circus

Think Circus SCIO is a social circus based in Edinburgh. We exist to improve confidence and wellbeing in young people, families and adults, through the experiences of learning circus. Since 2017, we've impacted 12,500 participants, excelling in youth programs in Craigmillar and Leith. Our mission is to create a supportive community where failure is celebrated, confidence grows, and the impossible becomes real.

Circus acts as a wildcard, engaging marginalized youth via easy-to-learn skills (juggling, hula hooping, acrobatics). This positive approach enhances confidence, mental/physical health, and resilience. Circus skills manage emotions applicable in various contexts. Our projects prioritize inclusivity, trauma awareness, and Decider Skills. One-third of participants are neurodiverse, and a quarter are from deprived areas. We offer weekly youth classes, family sessions, and projects for girls, partnering with local groups. As a Community Interest Company, we partly fund these via quality circus shows. We've impacted 2400+ and aid 48 beneficiaries yearly (ages 5-16).

Role Purpose

At Think Circus, we organize weekly youth classes tailored to various age brackets (5-8, 8-11, 11+ Teen Circus Club). Our classes bring together children from diverse schools and socio- economic backgrounds, fostering the development of physical literacy, confidence, and meaningful friendships. We are currently seeking volunteers to support our skilled coaches in facilitating our youth circus classes, enabling young individuals to acquire circus skills while nurturing their self-assurance.

Responsibilities

• Helping teachers to establish a secure and motivating atmosphere for our students to flourish.
• Introducing people to various circus acts, teaching children some simple tricks, and rest assured, training will be provided for you beforehand.
• Recognizing the accomplishments of young individuals and motivating them to explore new opportunities.
• Reporting any instances of abuse, inappropriate behaviour, or potential risks if observed.
• Assisting in maintaining a clean and organized classroom environment, including tidyingup and collecting equipment.
• Providing assistance at the reception desk, addressing visitor inquiries, and warmlywelcoming and encouraging youth to join and explore the world of circus.

Essential Skills

• Enjoying meeting new people and being friendly and kind to people.
• Work well in a team and find joy in collaboration.
• Reliable and punctual, with a good sense of responsibility.
• Willing to complete a PVG check (We will pay for the PVG check).

Desirable Skills

• Enjoying the circus and having basic circus knowledge (don’t worry if you haven’t).
• Previous experience working with youth.
• Having a sense of fun

Support and Training

Training and Support will be provided, which will include Safeguarding training, Circus Skill training, Client Liaison training, and Opportunities for additional SQA-approved training courses. We prefer to have long-term volunteering relationships and are able to offer additional opportunities such as masterclasses, events and training for volunteers who have been with us for over one year.

Benefits

• Developing new skills and boosting confidence.
• Engaging with new individuals and fostering a stronger local community.
• Becoming an integral part of a supportive team.
• Accessing continuous training and developmental prospects.
• Strengthening your CV and obtaining written references upon completing a minimum of 20 hours of volunteering.
• Free and discounted circus tickets for you, your family, and your friends.

How to apply

To apply, please visit our website, select "Volunteer with us," and complete the online application. Alternatively, you can download the application pack, fill it out, and return it to anran@thinkcircus.co.uk once completed.

Job Type: Volunteer

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events

Flexible Language Requirement:

• English not required

Work Location: In person