ECE Educators - Outdoor Preschool

Saplings Outdoor Program; North Vancouver; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Saplings Outdoor Program seeks passionate Early Childhood Educators for a full-time role focused on outdoor, nature-based learning. Join a committed team prioritizing exploration and play for children aged 2.5 to 9 years. This position offers competitive hourly pay, flexible work schedules, and a strong support network for educators.

Benefits

Extended health benefits

Opportunities for additional subbing and summer camp work

Qualifications

• Experience with children aged 2.5-5 years.
• Experience supporting children with additional needs/neurodivergence.
• Background in Forest School or Reggio-inspired education is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement nature-based programs.
• Ensure children’s safety during outdoor activities.
• Communicate effectively with parents.

Skills

Creativity

Flexibility

Commitment to early childhood learning

Education

BC Early Childhood Educator Certificate

Current First Aid Certificate

Job description

Start Date : September 2025 (with training in late August).

Schedule : Full-time position.

Salary : $24-$26 per hour (plus $6 wage enhancement if applicable).

Locations :

About the Role :

Saplings Outdoor Program is seeking passionate Early Childhood Educators to join our Preschool Programs across these locations. If you’re inspired by nature-based learning and enjoy working outdoors in all weather, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a growing community that prioritizes play, exploration, and connection to the land.

We’re looking for educators who :

• Thrive in an outdoor, play-based setting year-round.
• Work independently and collaboratively with a team.
• Bring creativity, flexibility, and a love of early childhood learning.
• Are committed to creating dynamic and engaging forest school experiences.

Primary Responsibilities :

• Plan and implement dynamic, nature-based programs alongside management.
• Ensure children’s safety while exploring diverse environments (forest play, hiking, climbing, near streams, etc.).
• Prepare learning areas and materials daily.
• Manage program tools and equipment, ensuring safety and maintenance.
• Co-create seasonal activities using natural, locally foraged materials.
• Provide individualized, age-appropriate mentorship with compassion and respect.
• Communicate effectively with parents in person and occasionally by phone.
• Attend monthly staff and parent meetings as needed.
• Be physically capable of teaching outdoors in all weather (including carrying a backpack and supplies).
• Support risk-taking and physical development in young children.
• Encourage familiarity with local flora / fauna (including identification of poisonous plants).
• Model and teach outdoor skills : knots, shelter building, leave-no-trace practices, and risk management.
• Follow licensing requirements.

Qualifications :

• Current BC Early Childhood Educator Certificate (ECEA not accepted).
• Clear Criminal Record Check.
• Current First Aid Certificate.
• Experience with children aged 2.5-5 years.
• Experience supporting children with additional needs / neurodivergence.
• Forest School or Reggio-inspired experience is an asset.

Who Are We?

Saplings Outdoor Program operates on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Coast Salish Peoples—Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Stó : lō, Səl̓ílwətaʔ / Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations. We offer preschools, afterschool care, daycares, and a primary school program. Our educators foster play and discovery in natural landscapes—forests, ocean sides, and parks—while supporting children’s sense of wonder and love of learning. We value slowing the pace of the day to give children time to learn, connect, and form caring relationships.

We’re committed to creating a safe, equitable space for all. We fiercely protect the rights of children and educators to belong and feel safe and actively implement anti-racist, anti-homophobic, and anti-transphobic practices.

Why Should You Apply?

Saplings offers a flexible work schedule and great work-life balance. Our educators note the positive impact of working in our beautiful outdoor classrooms on their mood and sense of well-being. If you’re seeking a meaningful role aligned with your philosophy of nature-based, child-centered learning, this role is for you.

Salary & Benefits :

• Extended health benefits.
• Opportunities for additional subbing and summer camp work.

Apply Today!

To apply or learn more, please get in touch. Join our mission to help children grow into resilient, curious, and connected learners - rain or shine!

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.

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