Undertaking a sport community volunteering placement

Choosing a Placement

Identifying personal interests and skills: Being aware of the sports you enjoy and your competency levels helps in selecting a suitable volunteering placement that you would be passionate about.
Researching options: Learning about different organisations, events, or programs seeking volunteers can help you make an informed choice.
Factors to consider: The nature of the work, the location, the necessary commitment, and the skills required are crucial when determining a placement.

Understanding roles and responsibilities: Knowing what is expected of you and the tasks you would be performing is necessary for the preparation process.
Training: Some placements may need specific training such as first aid or safeguarding courses. Be aware of these and plan to undertake them if necessary.
Developing a plan: Create personal objectives for your placement to guide your experience and help you make the most of the opportunity.

Adherence to regulations and policies: Follow the correct processes and abide by the rules set by the organisation.
Showing initiative: Going beyond what’s expected of you can make the placement more beneficial and fulfilling.
Building professional relationships with staff and other volunteers to enhance teamwork and communication for the overall success of the project.
Respecting diversity: Recognise and appreciate the differences in individuals or groups you interact with and adapt your approach accordingly.
Seeking feedback and supervision: Regularly request for and reflect on input from supervisors to improve as you progress.

Reflecting on your experience: Evaluate what you learned, what you enjoyed and what the challenges were. Consider how these could affect future choices.
Following up on connections made: Maintain the relationships you developed during your placement. These could be valuable networking resources in the future.
Adding the experience to your CV: Highlight what you did, skills gained and any achievements or recognitions.
Understanding the potential for further opportunities: Completing a placement could lead to more responsibilities, a paid role or new volunteering opportunities, hence take note of any doors your recent experience could open.