Job Description

Are you passionate about helping every child shine in their own unique way?

At

Eramosa Learning Academy (ELA)

, we believe that inclusion isn't just a philosophy -- it's a way of learning, growing, and connecting together. We're looking for a compassionate, creative, and collaborative

Enhanced Support Staff (ESS) Educator

to join our team and support children with diverse abilities in our licensed child care and school-age programs.

Position Summary

The

ESS Educator

works under the direction of the General Manager to support the positive participation and inclusion of children with exceptional needs. You'll collaborate with educators, families, and outreach professionals to implement

Individual Support Plans (ISPs)

and ensure inclusive strategies are woven throughout the program.

This role is ideal for someone who values meaningful relationships, child-led learning, and fostering belonging in every child -- guided by How Does Learning Happen?, Ontario's Pedagogy for the Early Years.

Key Responsibilities

Every day will bring new opportunities to make a difference! As our ESS Educator, you'll:

Champion Inclusion:

Foster a warm, welcoming space where every child feels seen, supported, and celebrated.

Adapt and Engage:

Support emergent, play-based learning that reflects each child's strengths, interests, and communication style.

Encourage Expression:

Use tools like visual schedules, PECS, gestures, or social stories to help children express themselves in ways that feel natural to them.

Collaborate Deeply:

Work side-by-side with educators, families, and outreach professionals (like speech therapists, occupational therapists, and KidsAbility teams) to bring Individual Support Plans (ISPs) to life.

Advocate and Reflect:

Engage in ongoing reflection and professional learning to ensure inclusion, equity, and empathy stay at the heart of everything we do.

Qualifications & Requirements

Minimum

1 year of experience

working with exceptional children in a childcare setting.

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or GED)

required.

Preferred post-secondary diploma

in one of the following fields: Child and Youth Care Child Development Practitioner Education Assistant Early Childhood Education Developmental Support Worker

Registered ECE

(in good standing with CECE) considered an asset.

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)

training is an asset.

Standard First Aid & CPR Level C

certification required. Up-to-date

immunizations

(TDaP, MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella).

Clear Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC)

within 5 months of hire.

Skills & Attributes

Understanding of neurodiverse needs (ASD, ADHD, sensory processing, emotional regulation). Calm, compassionate approach to behaviour and transitions. Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Knowledge of How Does Learning Happen?*, ELECT, and CCEYA.
Adaptability to changing needs, group dynamics, and real-time challenges. Commitment to inclusion, equity, and continuous learning.
Why Join ELA?

At

Eramosa Learning Academy

, you'll be part of a team that:

Values your voice, your ideas, and your growth. Champions inclusion and child-centered learning every single day. Offers ongoing professional development and mentorship opportunities. Believes laughter, teamwork, and empathy are essential parts of the job description!

How to Apply

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact and help every child feel seen, supported, and included, we'd love to hear from you!

Job Types: Part-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 8 months

Pay: From $23.50 per hour

Expected hours: 22.25 - 27 per week

Education:

DCS / DEC (required)
Experience:

child care: 1 year (required)
Licence/Certification:

CPR C and Standard First Aid (required)
Work Location: In person