Child Care Head Manager

Position Overview :

• As program Manager, you will work alongside the management team and be responsible to maintain the set of policies, procedures, and training processes that set the groundwork for effective and positive communications among staff members.
• As a part of these policies and procedures, you will also be responsible to establish a developmentally appropriate environment for all children.
• You will be responsible for the day-to-day operations including but not limited to administrative, staff supervision, public relations, programming, parent, family and community engagement, health and safety and childcare duties.
• This position requires experienced and strong leadership, management, organizational and communications skills as well as a positive and flexible attitude.
• he ability to leverage the use of technology is an important asset.
• This position is office based, inside one of our childcare facilities, however you will need to commute between numerous childcare facilities for supervision and program assistance when required.
• You will be required to observe children and provide staff with advice, strategies and support.

Requirements :

• Valid ECE license.
• Valid First Aid in Child Care certificate or equivalent.
• Criminal record check will be conducted.
• Minimum of 5 years experience in early learning profession.
• Minimum of 1 year experience in child care management.
• Valid driver's license.
• Access to vehicle daily or we can provide access to one.
• Effective oral and written communication skills including strong business writing skills.
• Experience in Forest School, Waldorf or Reggio Emilia philosophy programs.

Valuable Qualities :

• Strong Leadership, Organizational and Problem Solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills - ability to motivate staff and have positive interactions with parents and staff.
• Intimate knowledge of Childcare licensing regulations and processes.
• Ability to use technology including Google applications, dropbox, Slack, Nifty etc.
• Ability to multitask and be flexible in a fast paced environment, with excellent time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team, with minimal supervision.
• Experience in fundraising and grant writing an asset.

Major Responsibilities :

Provide leadership to approximately 11 programs including :

3 licensed preschool programs.

4 licensed before and after school care programs.

3 unlicensed outdoor-only after school care programs.

1 unlicensed outdoor-only preschool age program.

• Focus on strong team building.
• Coach, develop and support approximately 25 front line staff to achieve excellence in service ensure the delivery of high-quality programs and services that meet Provincial Licensing Legislation and Saplings Outdoor Program requirements and standards.
• Be an engaged and integral part of a cohesive management team, working to achieve the mission of the Saplings Outdoor Program.
• Commitment and focused attention to ensuring the organization commitments and targets with regards to annual operating plans and budgets, fundraising, grant proposals, Saplings Outdoor Program Initiatives, other special projects, while ensuring that all programs operate at maximum capacity.

Responsibilities and Duties :

Human Resources

• Hire, counsel, and train new staff members.
• Responsible for planning schedules of staff members, including the constant supervision, safety, and well being of the children.
• Resolve interpersonal conflicts among staff members, and / or with parents in a collaborative, constructive and positive manner.
• Conducts ongoing performance reviews and individual check-ins and coaching sessions with staff, as required.
• Apply for background checks and ensure that employee files are kept up-to-date and complete.

Licensing

• Responsible for meeting licensing requirements including child-staff ratios.
• Responsible to ensure a safe environment is maintained.
• Responding to concerns raised by parents or licensing authorities in a collaborative, outcomes based manner.

Operations

• Proactively manage enrollment and waiting lists to keep the centre at or near full enrollment.
• Follow up on all inquiries and conduct orientation for new families.
• Apply for grant funding as appropriate.
• Work with accounting to capture expenses.
• Fill reports for CCOF WEP and SCDP
• Substitute work when needed.

Wage : Wage is 27-35 an hour plus wage enhancement for those who qualify.

Who Are We?

Saplings Outdoor Program is an established forest school located throughout the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Stó : lō and Səl̓ílwətaʔ / Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations (Lower Mainland).

We operate numerous preschools, afterschool care programs, daycares, and a primary school.

Saplings believe that nature is a child’s best education. We use a holistic approach to education as we strive to inspire a sense of wonder and love for learning.

Our forest school educators are passionate individuals with a deep respect for childhood and reverence for the natural world.

Educators will work in a variety of natural landscapes such as forests, ocean sides, and parks as they inspire play and follow the children’s lead to discover the world around them.

At Saplings, time is flexible. We value slowing the pace of the day to give children time and space to learn, form caring relationships and connect with the natural world.

Our organization is committed to providing a safe and equitable space for all. Our educator's and children’s right to belong and feel safe is fiercely protected and we implement anti-racist, anti-homophobic, and anti-transphobic practices.

Why Should You Apply?

Saplings offer a flexible work schedule and a great work-life balance. Our educators note the positive effects working in our beautiful outdoor classrooms have on their mood and sense of well-being.

If you are seeking a meaningful role in education that aligns, you’re your philosophy of nature-based and child-centered programming, this job is for you.

Who Should Apply?

We employ individuals from a variety of backgrounds, and firmly believe the various unique expertise of our educators provide a rich learning environment for the children.

Sapling’s recognizes the important role it plays in strengthening values of equity, social justice, and diversity and inclusion.

We strongly encourage individuals from marginalized groups including those identifying as Indigenous, Black, LGBTQ2SIA+, and other equity-seeking backgrounds to apply.

About Saplings Outdoor Program :

Saplings Outdoor Program is a nature-based program located in West Vancouver for children ages 2.5-9 years old. The main purpose of our program is to provide children with an opportunity to connect with the environment in a safe and enjoyable way.

Nature is a child’s best education.