ESOL Intern - Spring 2027

International Rescue Committee•Richmond, VA

About The Position

The ESOL Intern assists the Adult Education Specialist in planning and providing English language training classes for refugees and immigrants served by IRC Richmond. The role supports learners in developing English speaking, reading, and writing skills that can improve access to resources and employment opportunities. The internship offers opportunities to learn about managing classes and related services, develop critical thinking, client service, intercultural education, and social work skills, and learn about IRC’s local and global work and services available to refugees and ORR-eligible clients in Richmond, Virginia. This position is unpaid and reports to the Adult Education Specialist. The intern must follow IRC policies, especially those concerning confidentiality and client privacy, and respect clients’ beliefs, values, cultural differences, and individual needs. IRC workers must also adhere to the IRC Way and the organization’s professional conduct and safeguarding policies.

Requirements

Cultural awareness of and sensitivity to vulnerable populations, and a desire to help refugees adjust to life in the United States.
Patience, understanding, and flexibility.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Effective communication skills, especially in a multicultural environment.
Willingness to learn about IRC’s mission, philosophy, global work, and local efforts, and to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies.

Nice To Haves

Undergraduate or graduate studies in education, social work, international relations, social sciences, or a related field.
Proficiency in more than one language.

Responsibilities

Assist IRC staff with enrollment, coordination, and implementation of classes.
Contact students to confirm their availability to attend classes.
Help navigate client barriers to education.
Differentiate and scaffold instruction for students individually or in small groups.
Communicate with local stakeholders and adult education services to connect students with appropriate classes.
Support teachers in preparing student materials for classes.
Coordinate with volunteers to ensure proper coverage for adult education classes, including childcare volunteers, and cover the childcare volunteer role as needed.
Collect data to support educational initiatives and encourage student success.
Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy, and respect clients’ beliefs and values while practicing sensitivity to cultural and personality differences.
Provide other support as needed.