Volunteer with BwD Adult Learning
Make a difference in your community. Share your time, skills, and passion to help adults thrive through learning.
We offer a range of rewarding volunteer roles that support adult learners across Blackburn and Darwen. Whether you’re helping in a classroom or helping someone learn to read/practise English, or feel more confident at a community event, your contribution matters.
Why Volunteer With Us?
- Help adults build essential skills for life and work
- Meet new people and learn about different cultures
- Gain experience and training in education and community work
- Make a positive impact in your local area
- Be part of a supportive and friendly team
Mission Statement
Our mission within Adult Learning is to empower individuals through accessible, inclusive and transformative learning experiences. We are committed to supporting volunteers and learners collaborate to enhance skills, build confidence, and inspire lifelong learning. Our aim is to break down barriers to education, celebrate diversity and promote personal and professional development for all.
Current Volunteer Roles
Volunteer Classroom Assistant
Support tutors during adult learning classes by helping learners stay engaged, assisting with activities, and creating a welcoming learning environment.
Garden Volunteer
Help maintain and develop the Bank Top community garden space used by adult learners. Support outdoor learning activities, promote wellbeing through nature, and contribute to creating a welcoming environment for all.
Volunteer Adult Reader
Support adults one-to-one using a structured reading scheme to improve literacy skills.
Events Volunteer
Assist with community events that promote adult learning and engagement.
ESOL Buddy
Help English learners practise speaking and listening through informal conversation.
Each role includes training, flexible scheduling, and ongoing support from our Volunteer Coordinator.
What We’re Looking For
- Friendly and approachable individuals
- Reliable and committed volunteers
- People who enjoy helping others and learning new things
- No formal qualifications required—just a willingness to support and learn
Training & Support
All volunteers receive:
- Mandatory and bespoke training relevant to their role
- Ongoing guidance from our team
- DBS clearance support
- Access to local venues such as libraries and learning centres
Where You’ll Volunteer
Across Blackburn and Darwen, including:
- Bank Top Neighbourhood Learning Centre
- Audley Neighbourhood Learning Centre
- Local libraries
- Community centres and public spaces
Volunteer Success Stories
Samara first joined us as a Volunteer Classroom Assistant, supporting learners during courses. She brought a wealth of experience, passion and a natural ability to encourage others – quickly becoming a trusted presence in the classroom.
Samara
With support from tutors and Skills Development Officers, Samara completed bespoke training and began shadowing sessions. Her dedication and growing skillset led to an opportunity to deliver her own sessions as a casual tutor.
Samara now delivers adult learning classes in Adult Social Care, Caring for Children, among other subjects, inspiring others just as she was once inspired.
Jade began volunteering as a Volunteer Classroom Assistant, supporting adult learners during group sessions. Her calm presence, ability to encourage learners, and natural rapport with tutors was apparent to many tutors within the Adult Learning Team.
Jade
Through her volunteer role, Jade developed key skills in learner support, communication, and safeguarding. With encouragement from the Adult Learning Team, she applied for a casual Learning Support Worker position—and got it!
Jade now works alongside tutors to support learners with additional needs which helps create an inclusive and accessible learning environments across Blackburn and Darwen.
Register Your Interest
Ready to dive in and volunteer with us? Register your interest by filling in the form below!
More Success Stories
Bank Top Community Garden Volunteers Shine as Finalists
We’re thrilled to share that the Bank Top Community Garden volunteers have been shortlisted as finalists for the prestigious “Place Award” at the annual Community Volunteer Awards, hosted by Community CVS. Selected from 1200 nominations, this recognition celebrates the extraordinary dedication, passion, and environmental stewardship our volunteers bring to the garden and the wider community.
This achievement is a powerful testament to the countless hours of hard work, care, and collaboration poured into making Bank Top a thriving green space. Being named among the top finalists is not just an honour—it’s a celebration of the spirit of community and the impact of grassroots action.
Thank you to every volunteer who made this possible. Your commitment continues to inspire and transform lives.
The Secret to Our Success?
Volunteers!! Every raised bed, every pollinator-friendly plant, and every welcoming pathway is the result of tireless dedication from a team of passionate volunteers. Their commitment to nurturing not just plants but also community spirit has transformed the garden into a vibrant, sustainable oasis.
Why It Matters
- The garden offers a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors alike.
- It promotes biodiversity and environmental stewardship.
- It fosters social connection and wellbeing through shared purpose.
This recognition is not just about flowers and foliage—it’s a tribute to the heart and hands behind the garden. The awards are more than trophies; they’re symbols of what can flourish when people come together with care, creativity, and a love for their local environment.
Bank Top Community Garden Blooms Bright
For the past two years, the Bank Top Community Garden has proudly earned top honours from the prestigious Britain in Bloom awards—an accolade that celebrates excellence in community horticulture across the UK.
In 2023, the garden received the Neighbourhood Award of Thriving – Level 4, and in 2024, it was elevated to Outstanding – Level 5, both awarded by Britain in Bloom in partnership with the Royal Horticultural Society.
Britain in Bloom visited the garden again in July 2025, and we are currently awaiting the results.