This is a pack of useful resources to help you encourage volunteering by students in your school.

A group of young people walking together

Why volunteer?

Young people may decide to volunteer for a variety of reasons. It may be as part of a programme at school (such as Duke of Edinburgh), to develop new skills, for experience. Whatever the reason, it provides an opportunity to:

  • give something back to an organisation that has helped them, either directly or indirectly
  • make a difference to the lives of others
  • help the environment
  • help others less fortunate or without a voice
  • feel valued and part of a team
  • spend quality time away from normal / busy life
  • gain confidence and self-esteem.

For some, volunteering can be a route to employment, or a chance to try something new. From this perspective, volunteering can be a way of:

  • gaining new skills, knowledge and experience
  • developing existing skills and knowledge
  • enhancing a CV
  • improving employment prospects
  • as part of gaining an accreditation.

For others, volunteering appeals because of its social benefits. These include:

  • meeting new people and making new friends
  • a chance to socialise
  • getting to know the local community.

Where can young people volunteer?

There are lots of volunteering opportunities available in the local area. We’ve outlined some groups who are looking to actively engage young people (16+ or under 16s welcome with adult supervision) in their local parks and volunteering schemes:





Spread the word

We’ve put together a presentation for you to edit and use in your school to explain the benefits of volunteering to young people, and to tell them about where they can get involved.