The sense of community at Grammar is undeniable and we are incredibly fortunate for the support of our parent body and volunteers who help cultivate this sense of belonging which truly sets us apart.
From classroom helpers to class coordinators, canteen volunteers and sporting coaches our parents take pride in their involvement. In support of National Volunteers Week, we took a minute to ask one of our Grammar P&F members and busy mum of 3 boys, Krissy Stapleton, a few questions about her involvement across the School over the past 12 years.
Krissy has actively volunteered across a range of activities including helping with literacy lessons, being a Class Coordinator, putting her hand up to be a manager and coach for soccer teams, cooking for Grammar Helping Hands, helping with Year 9 Mock Job Interviews, and for the last two years, being an integral member of the Grammar P&F.
Why do you believe it is important to volunteer?
Volunteering allows an institution to offer a greater range of experiences, opportunities and resources. In the school setting in particular, it allows such things as smaller and more individually targeted literacy lessons, greater communication between the school and parents, and a bigger opportunity for activities to be planned and implemented, such as stalls, fetes and parent gatherings. This all helps with the building a sense of community.
What benefits do receive from volunteering in the community?
The benefits of being a volunteer for me are huge. I have over the years been able to get to know and develop friendships with a large number of the parent base at school. It has also given me an outlet away from the home, to keep my mind active. It also gives me a great sense of pride and enjoyment that I can help out in some small way.
What qualities do you believe are important when volunteering and what lessons have you learnt?
Being open to try your hand at anything, and just give your best are probably the best qualities to have when being a volunteer. My favourite thing about being a volunteer in a school setting is being able to watch the children around you grow up and become young adults. The children I sat with in literacy lessons 11 years ago, still greet me today, and I find something very special in that. The lesson I have learnt is that, with a few of us giving a little of our time and effort, big things can happen.
