For many students at Newcastle University, volunteering is a way to build skills. North East Solidarity and Teaching, known as N.E.S.T, shows it can also change lives. This multi award winning, student led project based within Newcastle University Students' Union is recruiting volunteers to support refugee and asylum seeking communities across the region.
Founded in 2016 to provide language lessons, reading groups, homework help and community connections for refugee families, N.E.S.T has grown into an internationally recognized programme working with hundreds of people building new lives in Newcastle upon Tyne and the wider North East. Powered by more than 300 student volunteers, the project has become a central part of the university’s culture of solidarity.
"By creating welcoming and consistent spaces, the project supports people rebuilding their lives after displacement and isolation."
Volunteers support the community in practical and creative ways. Volunteers deliver one to one English support and ESOL classes for learners, lead reading groups, and run arts and craft sessions. Volunteers also visit local schools to deliver craft activities and reading support, helping young people build confidence and language skills. In addition, N.E.S.T runs week long programmes for young people that focus on learning, confidence building, and connection. The aim is simple but powerful. N.E.S.T helps refugee and asylum seeking participants gain confidence in their language skills, build friendships, and feel part of their community. By creating welcoming and consistent spaces, the project supports people rebuilding their lives after displacement and isolation.
"The project is open to students from all backgrounds and requires no prior experience."
Volunteering is not only meaningful for participants. Students who join N.E.S.T become part of a supportive community themselves. Regular social events for volunteers, including quizzes, celebrations, and language exchanges, create opportunities to connect, reflect, and share experiences. Many volunteers describe their involvement as one of the most rewarding parts of university life. The project is open to students from all backgrounds and requires no prior experience. Training is provided, and flexible sessions run days, evenings, and weekends to fit around academic schedules. Alongside developing leadership, teamwork, and organisational skills, volunteers gain perspective through direct human connection.
"Be the change you want to see in the world, for those looking to make a difference in Newcastle, N.E.S.T would love to meet you!"
Demand for N.E.S.T’s work continues to grow, and there has never been a more important time to get involved. With unlimited volunteering spaces available, students have the chance to contribute to meaningful change while learning far beyond the classroom. Be the change you want to see in the world, for those looking to make a difference in Newcastle, N.E.S.T would love to meet you!