Description:
We’re looking for a kind, reliable, and nature-connected educator to join our Morning walk, after school and Kindergarten team. As a Teaching & Educational Assistant, you’ll support our learners (ages 3–10) in a play-based, outdoor setting—helping foster a sense of belonging, curiosity, and wonder.
You’ll work closely with lead educators to co-create a supportive, engaging environment where children can learn through exploration and meaningful relationships with each other, their educators, and the land.
Toronto Nature School is a growing organization. This role is ideal for someone looking to deepen their experience in outdoor education—with opportunities to expand into aftercare, seasonal camps, or even future lead teaching roles as the school evolves.
What You’ll Be Doing
Child Support & Engagement
- Support children with daily routines, exploration, and learning through play
- Offer warmth, encouragement, and positive guidance to help children navigate their day
- Observe and support children’s emotional, physical, and cognitive development
Curriculum & Environment
- Assist lead educators in planning and delivering outdoor, land-based activities
- Help set up and maintain learning environments (both outdoor and indoor lodge spaces)
- Facilitate loose-parts play, sensory exploration, storytelling, hiking, games, and more
Safety, Supervision & Communication
- Maintain close supervision and clear communication with children at all times—including near water, fire, and forested areas
- Assist with risk assessments, check-ins, and gear management
- Communicate thoughtfully with families and collaborate with the team
Must-Have Qualifications
- Experience working with young children in outdoor, school, daycare, or camp settings
- Enrolled in or graduate of ECE, Education, OCT Teacher, Forest School Practitioners Course, or similar
- A love for nature, learning, and inclusive play
- Organized, punctual, and calm under pressure
- Current Standard First Aid & CPR-C (or willingness to obtain)
- Clear Vulnerable Sector Check (or willingness to obtain)
- Physically capable of working outdoors in all weather, on uneven terrain, and lifting light gear
Bonus Skills
- Familiarity with emergent curriculum, inquiry-based learning, and/or child-led approaches
- Understanding of risky play, positive discipline, and inclusive classroom practices
- Experience working in partnership with Indigenous educators or integrating the Calls to Action into educational work
You’ll Love This Role If You…
- Feel most alive outside and with kids asking big questions
- Value routines and rhythms, but can adapt when the weather changes the plan
- See yourself growing with a school that believes in reflection, play, and purposeful community-building
Perks & Compensation
- $20–$24 per hour (depending on experience)
- Opportunities to expand into other roles (aftercare, supply teaching, camp leadership)
- A supportive team of educators who care deeply about children and the land