Background: 
Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee is a leading, non-sectarian, non-profit organization providing emergency relief, protection, rehabilitation assistance, resettlement services, and advocacy for refugees and victims of oppression or violent conflict. Domestically, our 22 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency.

Scope of Role: 
Developing skills and confidence in speaking, reading, and writing in English is crucial for new arrivals’ success in Richmond. These skills expand resource accessibility, employment opportunities, and much more. The English Language Training Intern will assist the Adult Education Specialist in the planning and provision of English language training classes to the refugees and immigrants that IRC Richmond serves.

Learning Objectives:
The English Language Training (ELT) Intern will:

·       Learn how to manage classes and supporting services within the established requirements, to provide the best possible service to vulnerable populations.

·       Develop critical thinking skills, clients service skills, and intercultural education and social work skills.

·       Learn about the IRC locally and globally, the available services to refugees and ORR-eligible clients in Richmond, Virginia.

Responsibilities:

·       Assist IRC staff with the enrollment, coordination, and implementation of classes, including:

o   Contacting students to confirm their availability to attend classes.

o   Navigating client barriers to education.

o   Differentiating and scaffolding instruction to students individually or in small groups.

o   Communicating with local stakeholders and adult education services to connect students to appropriate classes.

o   Support teachers in the preparation of the student materials for the classes.

o   Coordinate with volunteers to ensure proper coverage is in place for adult education classes, including childcare volunteers; cover the childcare volunteer role as needed.

o   Collect data to support educational initiatives and encourage student success.

·       Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy, and practice sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of clients by respecting their beliefs and values.

·       Other support as needed.