Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society – ECE ASDC

Aboriginal Head Start Association of BC; Houston; On-site; CAD 52,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Extended health and dental benefits

Paid vacation time

Professional development and training

AHSABC learning and networking

Wage enhancement program eligibility

Supportive community environment

Job summary

Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society – ECE ASDC is seeking two qualified Early Childhood Educators / Aboriginal Supported Child Development Workers to support inclusive, culturally responsive early learning at the Friendship Centre Cub House in Houston, BC.

The role blends ECE with specialized support for children needing additional development, behavioural, physical, emotional, or communication assistance, guided by Indigenous values and the BC Early Learning Framework.

Qualifications

• Valid BC Early Childhood Educator Certificate and License to Practice.
• Supported Child Development training or equivalent experience.
• Current First Aid Certification.
• Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening.
• Medical Clearance.
• Knowledge of inclusive practices, child development, and relationship-based care.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized support to children requiring additional developmental, behavioural, physical, emotional, or communication assistance.
• Foster participation in all aspects of programming, including play, learning experiences, cultural activities, outdoor exploration, and peer relationships.
• Support children’s self-regulation, communication skills, social development, and independence.
• Adapt activities, environments, and learning materials to meet individual needs while maintaining inclusion within group programming.
• Promote each child’s dignity, strengths, identity, and sense of belonging.

Skills

Inclusive practices

Relationship-based care

Strong communication

Documentation

Cultural safety

Reconciliation

Education

BC ECE Certificate and License to Practice

Supported Child Development training / equivalent

Job description

• Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society – ECE ASDC

Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society – ECE ASDC

Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society is a community-driven, Indigenous-led organization located in Houston, British Columbia. Rooted in the teachings of the Wet’suwet’en territory, the Society has served as a vital hub for cultural, educational, health, and family services for more than 50 years.

The Friendship Centre Cub House, operated by Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society, is part of this commitment, offering culturally safe, inclusive, and Indigenous-led early learning opportunities that support children, families, and community wellness.

The Friendship Centre Cub House is funded through the Aboriginal Head Start Association of British Columbia (AHSABC), supporting high-quality early childhood programs rooted in Indigenous culture, language, family involvement, health promotion, nutrition, and social support.

Position Summary

Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society is seeking two qualified and compassionate Early Childhood Educators / Aboriginal Supported Child Development Workers to join the Friendship Centre Cub House team.

The ECE/ASCD Worker provides inclusive, culturally responsive support to children of all abilities within the Friendship Centre Cub House. This role combines the responsibilities of an Early Childhood Educator with specialized support for children requiring additional developmental, behavioural, physical, emotional, or communication supports.

Working collaboratively with children, families, educators, Elders, and community partners, the ECE/ASCD Worker helps ensure every child is fully included, respected, and supported in reaching their full potential. Guided by Indigenous values, AHSABC principles, and the BC Early Learning Framework, this position promotes belonging, participation, and holistic child development through relationship-based and strengths-focused practices.

Reports To

Executive Director

Key Responsibilities

Inclusive Child-Centred Support

• Provide individualized support to children requiring additional developmental, behavioural, physical, emotional, or communication assistance.
• Foster participation in all aspects of programming, including play, learning experiences, cultural activities, outdoor exploration, and peer relationships.
• Support children’s self-regulation, communication skills, social development, and independence.
• Adapt activities, environments, and learning materials to meet individual needs while maintaining inclusion within group programming.
• Promote each child’s dignity, strengths, identity, and sense of belonging.

Early Childhood Education Programming

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support children’s physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual development.
• Incorporate Indigenous culture, language, stories, songs, seasonal teachings, and land-based learning opportunities into daily programming.
• Create safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environments.
• Observe children’s interests and developmental progress to inform planning and support strategies.

Family and Community Collaboration

• Build respectful and trusting relationships with parents, caregivers, and extended family members.
• Collaborate with families to identify goals, strengths, and support strategies for children requiring additional assistance.
• Participate in the development and implementation of Individual Support Plans.
• Connect families with community resources and services when appropriate.
• Support meaningful family involvement in programming, cultural events, and community activities.

Team Collaboration and Professional Support

• Work collaboratively with the Lead ECE, Infant/Toddler Educators, ECE Assistants, and other support staff.
• Participate in team meetings, case planning, and collaborative problem-solving.
• Share observations and strategies with team members to support inclusive practices throughout the program.
• Assist educators in implementing individualized supports and accommodations.

Cultural Integration and Community Connection

• Ensure support strategies are grounded in Indigenous values, cultural safety, and community wellness.
• Collaborate with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and cultural facilitators to strengthen children’s cultural identity and connection.
• Support land-based learning, traditional teachings, and intergenerational programming.
• Foster an environment where children and families feel welcomed, respected, and valued.

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate records, observations, learning stories, and documentation related to child development and support plans.
• Monitor progress toward identified goals and support strategies.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all documentation and communications.

Health and Safety

• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of children at all times.
• Follow Child Care Licensing Regulations, centre policies, and health and safety procedures.
• Support emergency preparedness and incident reporting requirements.
• Maintain safe, clean, and organized learning environments.

Qualifications

Required

• Valid BC Early Childhood Educator Certificate and License to Practice.
• Supported Child Development training, certification, or equivalent experience supporting children with additional support needs.
• Current First Aid Certification.
• Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening.
• Medical Clearance.
• Knowledge of inclusive practices, child development, and relationship-based care.

Preferred

• Experience working in Indigenous early learning environments.
• Knowledge of Indigenous culture, language revitalization, and land-based learning approaches.
• Familiarity with the BC Early Learning Framework and AHSABC principles.
• Experience developing or implementing Individual Support Plans.

Skills and Attributes

• Strong understanding of inclusive and strengths-based approaches.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Compassionate, patient, and adaptable approach.
• Strong observation and documentation abilities.
• Commitment to cultural safety, inclusion, and reconciliation.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with families, educators, and community partners.

Hours and Compensation

Full-time position: 37.5 hours per week.
Wage: $27.00 per hour

Eligible employees may also qualify for additional compensation through the AHSABC Wage Enhancement Program, subject to funding approval and program eligibility requirements.

• Extended health and dental benefits following successful completion of probation.
• Paid vacation time.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• AHSABC learning and networking opportunities.
• Eligibility for the AHSABC Wage Enhancement Program, subject to funding approval and program eligibility requirements.
• Supportive, community-focused work environment.

We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous candidates and individuals with experience working in Indigenous communities.