Summer Camp Counsellor

Location Claremont Nature Centre - Pickering (Goodwood), ON

Hours Full-Time Seasonal (Monday – Friday, 33.75 hours/week)

June 20 - June 28 (training), June 29 - August 28 (camp)

Compensation $18.15/hour

Vacancies 11 positions

The Organization

Schoolhouse Playcare Centres of Durham is a non-profit charitable organization serving children from 0 – 12 years of age across Durham Region. We offer full-day licensed childcare, licensed before and after-school programs, licensed home childcare and recreational summer camp programs. We believe that all children and their families deserve high quality programs, in environments that are responsive to the children's interests and unique needs. We know the value of an incredible summer camp experience, and how these experiences help develop the leaders of tomorrow We promote an environment of respect and celebrate the rich diversity of the children, their families, and our employees.

Do you want to positively impact the lives of children in a FUN active environment? This opportunity could be the one for YOU

The Position

Reporting to the summer camp director, you will plan, prepare, and facilitate a variety of outdoor, nature-based experiences that promote an appreciation of the outdoor environment, teamwork and leadership skills. You will provide direct supervision and ensure the safety of a group of children 5-12 years of age and will work to create an environment of camaraderie and respect among campers.

Responsibilities:

• Build rapport and guide group behaviour to ensure an emotionally and physically safe environment.
• Plan, prepare and facilitate a variety of outdoor, nature-based experiences that reflect the interests of the children
• Adhere to the program structure and guidelines as outlined, and accesses program resources and support from the camp director
• Fully and enthusiastically participate in all camp activities, while being a positive role model and reflecting the values of the organization
• Communicate professionally with colleagues, families, partners, and other SPC employees
• Ensure family inquiries and concerns are shared with the camp director to ensure prompt, professional follow-up
• Attend and fully participate in all employee orientation, training and meetings as outlined
• Utilize the busing service to and from camp, and actively supervise children during their transportation

The Ideal Candidate – Professional Attributes

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent planning and program facilitation skills
• Ability to develop rapport and meet the individual needs of children
• Strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills
• Effective conflict resolution and problem-solving skills
• Professional work ethic and ability to maintain confidentiality
• Enthusiastic, positive, and FUN

The Ideal Candidate – Qualifications, Education and Experience

• Minimum of 17 years old
• Post-Secondary enrolment in a relevant field is an asset (i.e. CYW, OCT, Outdoor Adventure, Outdoor Leadership, Recreation and Leisure)
• A love of nature, and experience in the outdoor environment. Experience with camp skills like fire building, campfire cooking, orienteering, shelter building, archery and mountain biking is an asset.
• Experience planning and facilitating programs for children 5 – 12 years within a camp setting
• Valid up to date Standard First Aid with CPR C (prior to the start of contract)
• Holds a Hive Five Principles of Healthy Child Development Certification (asset)

Interested applicants should submit their cover letter and resume to Christina Baker, Supervisor, Camp and Community, via e-mail to Please indicate that you are applying for "SPC Camp Counsellor – Outdoor Explorers and Outdoor Leadership"

Closing Date: Monday, January 26, 2026 @3:00pm

We thank everyone who has submitted their applications. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Offers of employment are contingent upon a valid Police Records Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening issued within 6 months of the date of hire.

Schoolhouse Playcare is an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to a selection process and work environment that is inclusive and barrier free. Accommodation will be provided in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code. Applicants should make any accommodation requests for the interview or selection process known in advance by contacting Human Resources at

Job Type: Seasonal

Contract length: 10 weeks

Pay: $18.15 per hour

Benefits:

• Casual dress

Education:

• Secondary School (preferred)

Work Location: In person