Tutors and Assistants

Tutors & Assistants – Christchurch

Overview: Freedom Philosophy Society is a charitable (not for profit) incorporated organisation of volunteers. We deliver innovative and highly practical philosophy courses inside New Zealand’s prisons, in both the north and south islands, and in both men’s and women’s prisons. In Christchurch we are working in both Rolleston Men’s Prison and Christchurch Women’s Prison. We are looking for mature volunteers to help us deliver the programme. You’ll join a small team of volunteers who, with the help of our Freedom Philosophy Programme, guide incarcerated people to make life changes and live better, wiser lives.

What we do: We run an innovative programme of six tailor-made easy to follow practical philosophy courses for prisoners to help them improve their lives and rehabilitate into society. The courses draw on internationally recognised philosophy materials, modified to suit the prison environment. With application and practice, students can begin to develop and use inner wisdom to guide them towards a true and more meaningful life. These courses are rated very highly by both volunteers and students.

The impact: Your presence can make a powerful difference. By showing up, you help create a safe and affirming space where transformation begins. This is deeply meaningful work, and these sessions aim to reduce re-offending by nurturing inner healing and self-responsibility.

Your role: The roles vary slightly but both tutors and assistants are required to: • Attend in-prison sessions weekly as part of a team to facilitate the programme • Offer calm, consistent presence and support • Reflect, listen, and encourage students during sessions Tutors facilitate the programme and Assistants support the tutors

About you: We are looking for volunteers who are: • Mature with life experience (possibly recently retired) but most importantly, willing to help others learn and improve; • Calm and emotionally grounded, consistent and reliable; • Excellent listener, and non-judgmental; • Comfortable in structured environments and sensitive situations; • Open minded, and maybe even a little philosophically curious; and • Able to work in a team and follow procedures

Benefits: • Deep personal growth – our volunteers say they gain so much from these programmes; and • A rare and meaningful opportunity to contribute to systemic change in society.

Time commitment: • Ideally, 2-3 hours per week. You’ll attend scheduled weekly prison sessions (75minutes) and there is some pre-reading to do beforehand; and • Preferably, you will commit to a minimum of 6 months for consistency.

Training and support: Volunteers receive training and guidance on both the material and prison protocols, and are fully supported through their journey. No prior experience is required What matters most is your supportive presence and ongoing commitment.

Interested? Apply now to receive an expression of interest form, participate in a kōrero, and undergo standard vetting for prison access.
We look forward to hearing from you!