Spring Break Forest School Educator

**Spring Break Forest School Educator (FT)**

We are seeking Forest School Educators to work at our spring break programs across the lower mainland. This position would require travel between locations in Vancouver, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver. We are hiring for multiple positions. Approximately 30-40 hours per week (depending on the positions) between the hours of 8:00-4:00.

**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, oceanside, 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 educators 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.

**Additional perks**:

- Extended health benefits for eligible employees.
- A bonus upon completion of the school year.
- Monthly professional development.

**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. Saplings recognize the important role it plays in strengthening values of equity, social justice, diversity, and inclusion. We strongly encourage individuals from marginalized groups including those identifying as Indigenous, Black, LGBTQ2SIA+, and other equity-seeking backgrounds to apply.

**Further Requirements**:

- Current First Aid Certificate.
- Willingness to complete Criminal Record Check.
- Experience working with children.
- Preferably experience in outdoor education focusing on play-based, student-led learning.
- Great interpersonal skills with children, co-educators, and parents.
- Valid driver's license and access to a vehicle (preferred).

**Duties of Educators**:

- Implementing a dynamic forest school program following the interests of the children.
- Ensuring the safety of the children as they engage in forest play, river play, tree climbing, hiking, etc.
- Plan and prepare activities and projects utilizing natural materials, locally foraged or sourced.
- Attending monthly staff and parent meetings as needed.
- Modeling respectful and compassionate communication with an emphasis on rights-based education.
- Healthy and collaborative communication with parents and co-workers.
- The enthusiasm for working outside regardless of the weather (rain, sleet, snow, heat) includes the ability to walk distances over uneven terrain, and carry a backpack and various supplies. Advocate for and support the benefits of risk-taking, movement, and physical development in the early years.
- Model and teach outdoor skills including risk management, knots, shelter building, self-care/appropriate clothing, leave-no-trace practices, and interacting with local wildlife.

**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.