ST JOHN NT
NEWSROOM

“It’s like herding meerkats!” Tamara laughs “I’m kidding, the kids are great!” St John NT Community Education volunteer Tamara is adamant that it’s the green uniform that keeps the kids interested, but we reckon her passion and enthusiasm is what keeps them engaged! “It delights me when the kids get involved in what I’m teaching, it makes me feel like they’re learning and will remember it.”

Tamara has been a volunteer since May 2020, after a long interest in Paramedicine and an Instagram ad finally pushed her across the line. “I saw the ad and thought ‘what a great way to further engage with the community, build confidence and also a way to keep the basics fresh in mind’. It was an easy decision to commit to the program after meeting Hayley [our Community Education leader], she made me feel very welcome. Watching her teach inspired me!”

Despite only being a volunteer for seven months, Tamara has developed countless new skills. “I have learned so much through the volunteer programs! I’ve also increased my confidence in public speaking and my knowledge of patient treatment. I feel so much excitement before I volunteer. I’m excited to engage with new little faces and potentially inspire a few future Paramedics!”

Tamara isn’t the only one who gets confidence from the First Aid in Schools program – the kids do too! “It gives them the confidence to help, and not panic, as they will know what to do. Education is paramount for kids, so learning life-saving treatment is a skill I believe all kids should have the opportunity to know.” St John NT believes this as well, which is why the First Aid in Schools program runs as no cost to the schools, giving everyone a chance to learn these skills.

If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer but are worried that you don’t have any experience, put those worries aside! “You don’t need experience to be an amazing educator. You learn from watching other educators and going with the group you’re teaching. “

So what are you waiting for? Click here to register your interest: http://ow.ly/9y9e50Dv2P6. And while you’re at it, why don’t you check out Tamara’s song of the week ‘Feel It Still’ by Portugal. The Man.