At Smile, we believe that supporting schools goes way beyond the classroom. As part of this year’s Volunteers’ Week, we’re shining a spotlight on the incredible ways our team members give their time, energy and heart to the communities we serve.

Volunteering is something our team embraces in all its forms, whether it’s through helping young people take their first steps towards employment or offering comfort and companionship to those who need it most.

Inspiring the Next Generation

One of the most powerful ways our team gives back is by helping students prepare for the world of work.

Back in January, our Regional Director Olivia took part in Year 8 mock interviews, helping students practise their interview techniques and gain confidence as they looked ahead to senior school.

Our Business Partnerships Executive Jami has supported similar sessions, volunteering in December to work with Year 10 and 11 students at a local school. Her feedback gave students an insight into how to present themselves and feel more prepared for job opportunities in the future.

Earlier this year, Jami was also part of a brilliant employability event at the University of Worcester, alongside our Managing Director Katy, Resourcer Charlotte, and Recruitment Consultants Ian and Tisha. Together with local headteachers, they delivered mock interviews for trainee teachers, giving them a chance to build confidence in a professional setting.

The feedback from students was excellent:

• “The organisation was perfect… meeting a staff member at reception helped calm my nerves.”
• “Felt like an actual interview but with great support and feedback.”
• “I found this to be a valuable experience and I feel more confident to attend interviews.”

These experiences show how something as simple as giving time can have a lasting impact.

Giving Back to the Community

Volunteering can also look like picking up a phone, making someone smile or even collecting Christmas trees.

Our Head of Talent Acquisition Adam braved the cold in support of the St Giles Hospice Christmas tree recycling scheme, helping raise funds for end-of-life care and promoting sustainability in the process.

Katy also makes a weekly call to her Age UK telephone friend, offering connection and conversation to someone who might otherwise feel alone. She also supports Home Run Hounds, a greyhound charity helping retired racers find loving homes.

Our Head of Compliance Louise is about to begin volunteering with Good Neighbours Coventry, where she’ll be paired with a person from the Windrush generation for regular chats over a cuppa. It’s a cause close to her heart:

“It’s something I’m really excited about, as both of my dad’s parents came here from Trinidad and were part of the Windrush generation. Being able to give back in a way that honours their legacy feels incredibly meaningful.”

Behind so many of these initiatives is Charlotte Stevens, our amazing charity lead. Her energy and dedication help keep causes like HelpHarryHelpOthers at the heart of what we do, and her encouragement has inspired so many of us to get involved.

Community Roots and Lifelong Impact

Sarah White, Director at Smile Digital and a dedicated Girlguiding leader, shares the joy of leading her Brownies unit each week:

“From being 'arrested' while exploring exciting careers, to magical sleepovers at the Sea Life Centre and a Trash Fashion catwalk, every week is an adventure. I’m so proud to be part of something that helps girls grow with confidence, creativity and friendship.”

East Midlands Consultant Patrick has spent the last four years serving as a school governor, helping ensure pupils’ needs are met and the school community is well supported. And Katy Rees (yes, she’s amazing!) also lends her expertise to a local primary school’s marketing efforts, helping raise its profile and strengthen its community links.

Celebrating the People Behind the Impact

At Smile, we’re proud to work with people who don’t just talk about making a difference - they go out and do it.

From mentoring future teachers and supporting young people in schools, to charity fundraising, community connections and everything in between, our team shows that volunteering doesn’t have to look one particular way. What matters is the care, commitment and willingness to show up.

We want to say a huge thank you to everyone at Smile (and everyone in the communities we work in!) who gives their time so generously. You make a real difference.