Substitute Forest School Educator

Saplings Outdoor Program is looking for an individual who is interested in working with preschool and / or school-aged children in the outdoor environments around various schools. We are looking for an individual who is interested in working independently, as well as part of a team. You will be working in our morning programs, full day programs and / or after school care programs around Vancouver, North Vancouver and West Vancouver

Responsibilities :

• Alongside the management plan and implement a dynamic forest program.
• Ensure the safety of all children including but not limited to forest play, hiking, climbing trees, or while in close proximity to such things as standing water, streams, and other terrains.
• Ensure the daily preparation of learning areas and materials.
• Assume overall responsibility for program tools and equipment, to include safety, use, and maintenance.
• Plan, prepare and co-create seasonal activities and projects utilizing natural materials, locally foraged or sourced.
• Implement mentorship strategies that are individually focused and age-appropriate, with an emphasis on compassion and respect.
• Attend monthly staff meetings and parent meetings as needed.
• Communicate with parents effectively, in-person, and occasionally by phone.
• Be physically capable of performing teaching duties with enthusiasm regardless of the weather (rain, sleet, snow, heat) including the ability to walk distances and over uneven terrain, carry a backpack and supplies.
• Support the benefits of risk-taking, movement, and physical development in the early years.
• Encourage familiarity with the local flora and fauna, including poisonous plants and their location, or be willing to be mentored, seek outside training or self-study.
• Model and teach outdoor skills including risk management, knots, shelter building, self-care / appropriate clothing, leave-no-trace practices, and interacting with local wildlife.

Qualifications :

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.