Register to become a reading volunteer
We’re so excited to have you join our volunteer community.
Your support means so much to the children who you will help to read.
Here’s all you need to get started:
You’re about to do something that has real impact. Here’s what you need to know before beginning your application:
Becoming a Bookmark reading volunteer is a meaningful commitment. Ensure you're able to commit to delivering two 30-minute sessions per week.
Given the investment required to onboard each volunteer (£300+), we ask that you apply only when you’re ready to meet the programme requirements and dedicate the necessary time.
If you wish to volunteer online, confirm you have access to: a PC, laptop, MacBook, iPad, tablet, phone or Chromebook with a webcam and internet connection and that you feel relatively comfortable using technology.
Read the volunteer role description to find out what's involved.
Watch our step-by-step video guide
See what’s involved in becoming a Bookmark volunteer in our short step-by-step guide.
What’s involved in the application process?
The process is straightforward and transparent. Just complete the registration form with the details listed below.
You can save and return to your application anytime. If you get stuck, just email us.
Fill in your name and contact details
Choose one of the following:
- Bookmark volunteer
- Corporate volunteer
- Reading Mentor (for 14–18-year-olds)
As part of our safeguarding policies, please provide:
- A five-year history of education, work, or volunteering (flexible if not applicable)
- Two references to support your application
If you’re no longer in work or may struggle to provide references, please read our guidance or email applications@bookmarkreading.org for help.
For the best experience, please use Google Chrome and make sure you’re not logged in to Citrix.
After review, apply for a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
- Bookmark covers the cost
- Support is available if needed
- If you've lived abroad, you may also need an overseas check
Take part in a short online interview with a Bookmark team member
Complete online training to prepare for your volunteer role
Don’t worry if you haven’t gone through an application process like this before' our team will support you every step of the way and you can complete these steps in times convenient to you.
You can find more information about our recruitment processes on our help centre.
Any questions?
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You'll select the programme timing which works best for you and book it through our Volunteer Hub. You'll then log onto each session through your PC, laptop, MacBook, Chromebook, iPad, tablet or phone, which requires both a webcam and an internet connection.
Teachers will set the child you'll be reading with up with the same so that you can use our secure online platform, with plenty of games and reading resources to deliver a reading session online.
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Yes! As well as online sessions, we offer face-to-face opportunities to read with a child at a primary school that is local to you, depending on availability. For in-person programmes, we're looking for people who could support a minimum of two children a week.
You can find a full list of areas with school availability, which is updated across the year, by searching for 'f2f schools list'.
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The main way volunteers can connect with each other is through the messaging platform, 360L. We have a really supportive community of volunteers. You can find more information about 360L and links to join our groups here.
Our Volunteers Team also run regular drop-in sessions for volunteers, which you can find and book into on the ‘Events’ section of the Bookmark Library.
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There are lots of ways you can make a difference and volunteer with Bookmark. Through online and face-to-face volunteering you can read with a child as a Reading Volunteer, Corporate Volunteer or Reading Mentor.
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Our digital platform pairs schools with fully safeguarded, vetted and trained reading volunteers in the local community, at the tap of a button.
