Early Childhood Educator Assistant (or Equivalent) – Kimbercote Location

We have a fantastic opportunity available to join our team! Our workplace is positive, passionate, and collaborative. Our staff support one another, care deeply about the well-being of children, and foster meaningful connections to nature in the early years. We are an inclusive employer committed to creating a welcoming, respectful workplace and offer flexible work arrangements.

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Flexible hours available, 30–40 hours/week) Hourly Rate: $25.50–$27.30/hour Opportunities for contract extension

Hundred Acre Wood Forest School is looking for a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) (or an individual with equivalent education and/or professional experience) to join our team. We are looking to add another Educator to our childcare (toddler and preschool) program team to continue providing the essential service of childcare for our community. If you are passionate about nature-based learning and love taking little ones outside in every season, we'd love to hear from you! We are a licensed non-profit preschool centre located in Heathcote, Ontario, situated on 100 acres of meadow and forested land, with an indoor facility that reflects our outdoor learning philosophy. Working alongside your teammates, you will deliver an emergent, nature-based program that meets the requirements of Ontario's regulatory bodies overseeing Early Childhood Education. You will also implement environmentally conscious practices by limiting waste, encouraging nature connection, and using natural materials for crafts and activities.

Duties

Set up and maintain outdoor and indoor learning environments that invite play-based and nature-based learning.

Participate in daily provocation set up and learning experiences

Participate in daily program song, a willingness to sing is strongly encouraged Guide children through the daily rhythms and routines. Build meaningful relationships with and care for each child. Oversee the health, safety, and well-being of all program participants. Stay up to date with the educational needs and expectations of children, families, and the program. Communicate professionally with parents, caregivers, and colleagues. Assist with a variety of tasks including administrative duties, gardening, cleaning, and cooking, as needed.

Expectations

Be physically able to support children as required (e.g., lifting, frequent movement to and from the floor). Be prepared to work outdoors in all weather conditions by dressing appropriately (rain gear, bug protection, winter clothing, etc.). Maintain a working knowledge of centre policies and procedures and adhere to them at all times. Provide exceptional customer service to children and families. Have an appreciation for the natural world through education, personal interest, or experience. Take pride and joy in working with children ages 18 months to 4 years. Be adaptable and comfortable shifting priorities as needed. Demonstrate strong communication skills and a professional work ethic.

Qualifications

Two-year Community College Early Childhood Education Diploma (or equivalent professional education and/or experience). Registration with the Ontario College of Early Childhood Educators (where applicable). Experience working in the field of early childhood education. Current Standard First Aid and CPR certification. A clear Vulnerable Sector Screening completed within the past 12 months.

Why Join Hundred Acre Wood? Our staff love coming to work! The location offers breathtaking views every day, and we have the privilege of spending our days outdoors listening to the joy and laughter of children. Our team collaborates to continually improve our programs while staying true to our values. Staff at Hundred Acre Wood are creative, committed, and proactive. We value team members who aren't afraid to jump in—whether that's wiping muddy faces, cleaning muddy floors, or helping wherever needed to support the children and one another.

How to Apply

If you are interested in joining our team, please email your resume and cover letter to hr@haw.ca (or click "Send Us Your Resume").

Please include

Where you are currently located. Which location you are applying for: Kimbercote or Feversham.

Accessibility & Accommodation

Hundred Acre Wood Forest School is committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible workplace in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code. Accommodations are available throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process upon request. If you require accommodation, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs.