Job Description

Educator - Lions Bay Preschool & After School Care

Location:

Saplings Outdoor Program, 250 Bayview Road, Lions Bay, BC

Schedule:

Monday-Friday, 1:00-5:30 pm (with occasional additional hours)


Saplings Outdoor Program is seeking a passionate Educator to join our

Lions Bay Preschool and After School Care program

. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys leading groups of children in an outdoor setting, building engaging forest school experiences, and supporting both preschoolers and school-aged children.


If you hold an

ECE certification

, you will also have opportunities to work as a regular substitute in our Lions Bay Preschool and other Saplings preschool locations.

Primary Responsibilities:

Collaborate with management and fellow educators to plan and implement a dynamic, nature-based program. Lead and supervise children during outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and forest play, ensuring their safety near natural elements (streams, uneven terrain, wildlife, etc.). Prepare daily learning areas, tools, and natural materials for seasonal projects and activities. Take responsibility for the safety and maintenance of program tools and equipment. Support children's independence, confidence, and risk-taking skills in outdoor environments. Communicate with parents in person and occasionally by phone. Participate in staff and parent meetings as required. Model and teach outdoor skills, including risk management, shelter building, knots, self-care, and leave-no-trace practices. Work confidently in all weather conditions while carrying supplies and walking on uneven terrain. Uphold Saplings' licensing requirements and philosophy of care.

Qualifications:

Based in or near

Lions Bay

(required). Responsible Adult, ECEA, or ECE certification. Clean Criminal Record Check. Current First Aid Certificate. Experience working with children ages 2.5-12, preferably in an outdoor or group-leadership role.

About Saplings

Saplings Outdoor Program operates across the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples--S?wx?wu7mesh (Squamish), Sto:l?, S?l?ilw?ta?/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and x?m??k??y??m (Musqueam) Nations. We run preschools, afterschool care, daycares, and a primary school across the Lower Mainland.


We believe that

nature is a child's best education

. Our educators foster curiosity, risk-taking, and play while guiding children to connect deeply with the land. We are committed to creating safe, inclusive, and equitable spaces for all, implementing anti-racist, anti-homophobic, and anti-transphobic practices.

Why Join Us?

Work in a stunning outdoor classroom with the ocean and forest as your backdrop. Flexible schedule with healthy work-life balance. Be part of a supportive, passionate team of educators. Opportunity to substitute in Saplings' preschool programs if ECE certified.

Who Should Apply?

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and encourage individuals who identify as Indigenous, Black, LGBTQ2SIA+, or from other equity-seeking groups to apply. We value educators who bring unique expertise and perspectives that enrich children's learning experiences.

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.