Situated in a low socio-economic area in South Auckland, De La Salle College is a secondary school of with around 1100 boys enrolled who are predominantly from a Pacific Islander background. Students are faith filled, have a strong sense of loyalty and are passionate about their school.  Sport, music and art play a big part in the school and students respond positively to mentoring.

With two male volunteer placements on offer, this dynamic opportunity at De La Salle College offers a broad cross-cultural experience, outreach for disadvantaged youth, growth in understanding of the Lasallian charism and activities to live out faith, service, and community. The volunteers also share and are supported by their participation in the life of the Brothers' community.  There is easy access by train and bus to New Zealand's biggest city centre, Auckland. After a warm start to the year the weather is usually cool (average high of 15 degrees in Winter) for most of the year.

Responsibilities:

·        Assist classroom teachers in a variety of subjects.

·        Aid homeroom teachers with their pastoral responsibilities.

·        Assist the College Youth Minister in preparing class/school-wide liturgies, retreats and leadership formation programs.

·        Support in literacy and student learning support service.

·        Assist in extra-curricular options and planning, e.g. sports programs, homework centre.

·        Attend and support with the facilitation of outdoor education camps; youth ministry program; and leadership training programs.

·        Assist with retreats at the other two Lasallian schools in New Plymouth and Rotorua.

Challenges: 

Working with students from diverse cultures, learning to live with others ,dealing with difficult and challenging behaviours of some students, being away from family and friends, conducting yourself in a professional manner with students the same age as you;, and understanding the high levels of family responsibilities for young people in this cultural context.

Rewards:

Making a positive contribution towards the many aspects of school life, supporting students with challenging lives, a greater appreciation of Pacific Islander and Maori cultures, experiencing cultural activities and celebrations, developing relationships with students, experiencing different parts of New Zealand and gaining a better understanding of a Brother's life.

Preferred qualifications and attributes:

Good inter-personal skills and emotional resilience; proactive; solid literacy and numeracy skills; interest in sports and outdoor education; retreat experience and the willingness to participate generously, both in the school and the Brothers' community.