Nature Education / Teaching

Hiring: Nature Academy Educator
Project: Nature Academy, a project of A Rocha Ontario
Location: based at our field site: Cedar Haven Eco-Centre, 1039 Regional Road 97, Freelton, between Hamilton and Guelph, Ontario

Summary of Primary Job Functions

A Rocha Ontario’s Nature Academy promotes ecological literacy, identity and responsibility through immersive nature education to foster healthy relationships with the earth that last a lifetime.

Following a prepared curriculum, the contracted Educator will teach and facilitate nature and science education for children in one of the following grade levels: Clouds (JK-SK), Dreys (Gr. 1-2), Sleuths (Gr. 3-4), and Kettles (Gr. 5-6). Although lessons have been prepared, the Educator should bring their skills, passions and ideas to the class. We encourage the expression and individuality of each Educator!

From the students’ arrival to their departure, the Educator is responsible for their class and must be present with them at all times (except for one scheduled break each day). Nature Academy is hosted at the Cedar Haven Eco-Centre in Freelton, ON.

3 positions available.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate has a background in formal education and/or nature interpretation and is comfortable teaching basic life and earth sciences. This individual is able to express their knowledge in a way that is accessible and contributes to the hands-on learning experience of students. The candidate should be comfortable working with young kids of varying ages and abilities in an outdoor setting.

The ideal candidate is creative and adaptable in their approach to teaching. They have a passion for teaching others about nature and specifically engaging the curiosity of each child towards a collective learning. This individual is excited about nurturing an inquiry-based learning environment and fostering wonder.

Duties and Responsibilities

Program Facilitation (80%)

• Lead two daily lessons (preplanned) that promote ecological literacy, identity and responsibility.
• Facilitate learning in a flexible manner so as to meet the needs of each student.
• Foster wonder and curiosity through personal engagement with class.
• Ensure the safety of each student and follow the Cedar Haven safety protocols.
• Supervise class for the duration of the day.

Lesson Prep (10%)

• Review and adapt weekly lesson plans to suit your teaching style and personal interests.
• Each week, ensure materials are available and prepared for the following class.
• Come to class understanding the basic concepts of the lesson and the desired learning outcomes.

Communication (5%)

• Engage parents with kindness and be available to answer any questions they may have.
• Reflect on the program day and provide a weekly summary email to parents, highlighting learning moments and activities from the day.

Orientation & Daily Review (5%)

• Attend staff orientation day before the program starts.
• Attend staff debrief meetings (after kids leave).

Qualifications and Requirements

• Background in formal education and/or nature interpretation
• A passion for the natural world
• Embodies A Rocha Canada’s Commitments and Core Values
• Exhibits a spirit of humility
• Creative problem solver and decision maker
• Flexible and able to adapt to changing situations
• Vulnerable Sector Check required

Hours of Work & Compensation

• Workweek: this is a contract position generally requiring 8 hours/week (one day), for 10 weeks (+ staff orientation before program start). For the 2025 Spring Term, one position may be available requiring 16 hours/week (2 days) for 10 weeks (+ staff orientation before program start). Specific terms and session dates can be found at http://www.arocha.ca/nature-academy.
• Rate of Pay: $22.50/hour (payments made every two weeks upon receipt of invoice.)

APPLY

To apply, please email your resume and cover letter to: nature.academy@arocha.ca

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