ECE: SUMMER STUDENT

Title: Summer Student - Early Childhood Educator

Reports to: Regional Manager

Job Classification: Summer Student, Term

Term: July – August (35 - 40 hours per week)

Location: Elmsdale & Dartmouth

Deadline for resume submissions: open until position is filled

**This position is part of the Canada Summer Jobs program. To be eligible for this position you must be between the ages of 15 and 30, a permanent resident of Canada or a Canadian Citizen.

YWCA Halifax is committed to diversity, and we welcome all suitably qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. YWCA Halifax is governed by, employs, and serves diverse people and community members. Self-identification by applicants does not guarantee an interview but we want you to know that we understand that lived experience of racialization, Indigeneity, (dis)Ability, and gender diversity are their own knowledge and expertise. We value this expertise and consider it as we discern who to interview.

YWCA Halifax is a progressive, multi-service, not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of women, girls, two-spirited and gender diverse people and their families at critical turning points in their lives. We work to transform lives by providing a continuum of services and programs that drive lasting positive change. We strive to change the underlying issues that are root causes of inequality, violence, poverty, and homelessness. Our four program focus areas include: promoting the health, wellness, and leadership of women and girls; advancing women’s economic and housing security; delivering quality, accessible, early learning, and childcare; and working to end violence against women, girls and gender diverse individuals.

Why work for the YWCA

Staff at YWCA Halifax enjoy a supportive and dynamic team environment, a commitment to staff growth, a connection to the national and international YWCA movements, learning from colleagues in a multiservice agency, and a strong shared vision.

Why YOU should apply

Even if you don’t have all the requirements listed in this position, you may be the right candidate. If you are a natural leader with a strong attention to detail and a passion for social justice and gender equity, we want to hear from you. Take a chance and apply. Tell us how you can make a difference through your YWCA.

Position Summary

The Early Childhood Educator student is expected to work with ECE staff within established guidelines of the YWCA and within the policy, procedures and regulations of the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and the Food Safety Guidelines, to deliver the planned quality childcare program.

General Competencies

Must be a team player with skills in caring for children in a group setting. Must have a professional attitude and effective communications skills. Must have common sense, sound judgment and decision-making skills. Work can be demanding both physically and mentally. Must be a good communicator.

Qualifications:

· Applicants studying Early Childhood Education or Similar at a University or College Level with plans of returning to study in Fall (preferred but not mandatory)

· Food Handling/Safety Certificate would be an asset

· First Aid with Infant CPR (Level C)

· WHIMIS

· Child Abuse Record Check

· Criminal Records Check (Vulnerable Sector)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Program Implementation

• Work with full-time staff respecting established routines for the children.
• Provide for active physical play both indoors and outdoors. Maintain playground by ensuring that fire escape routes are kept clear of toys, and debris.
• Create a warm, safe, pleasant and inviting atmosphere and ensure that all areas in and out of the classroom are kept tidy, clean, and in good order.
• Devote the whole working time, attention and energy to the care of the children.
• Provide quality early learning and childcare through a culturally responsive/reflective lens with a focus on Inclusive practices.
• Communicate with children with respect and at their own individual and developmental level and set realistic behavior expectations following the YWCA Behavior Guidance Policy. Support children in developing problem- and conflict-solving abilities.

Health and Safety

**All Employees must adhere to and follow YWCA Early Learning Centre Health and Safety Operational Plan, rules, regulations, and guidelines.

• Maintain personal hygiene.
• Ensure that children are supervised at all times and in accordance with Department of Education and Early Childhood Development regulations, ratios, and YWCA policies and procedures
• Follow established procedures for diapering, toilet training, hand washing, and safe and healthy food handling. Ensure that children with allergies and other special conditions receive the appropriate food and other accommodations. Follow procedures for the administration of medication.
• Understand and follow strategies for the prevention of communicable diseases.
• Ensure all dangerous product and equipment is kept out of the reach of children.
• Follow protocols regarding communications with parents, ensuring confidentiality and professionalism.
• Release children only to authorized people.
• Remain calm during drills and emergency evacuations.

Communication /Professionalism:

• Respect the confidentiality of all information related to the children and their families as well as any non-published information pertaining to all YWCA programs and operations.
• Maintain a courteous and professional relationship with co-workers, supervisor, other employees, and families of the children.
• Dress appropriately.
• Maintain a professional relationship with parents and greet parents and children warmly at drop off and pick up times.

Working Conditions

• Caring for children is physically and mentally demanding.
• Work requires heavy physical effort for lifting, bending, stooping, carrying and reaching overhead
• Work may require long periods of standing or walking
• Work may require dealing effectively and calmly with emotionally volatile situations

How to Apply

Please submit resume with cover letter to Yuna Lee, Regional Manager, YWCA Early Learning and Child Care, by email: y.lee@ywcahalifax.com. Please state the title of the job for which you are applying.

Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Contract length: 2 months

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Extended health care
• On-site parking
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Application question(s):

• Are you legally entitled to work in Canada?

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-07-08