School Camp Program Leader

About The Waldorf School

Established in 1971, The Vancouver Waldorf School (VWS) offers school programs from Parent and Tot through to Grade 12. Our school operates under a transparent, fair, and equitable governance structure through a College of Teachers that effectively empowers faculty to participate in the running of the school and through a Board of Trustees with fiduciary responsibilities.

The Position

The School Camp Program Leader is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and management of a safe and engaging camp experience for students. This role involves leading various camp activities, ensuring student well-being, and maintaining effective communication with fellow teaching leads, parents, and students. The Program Leader will collaborate with other team members to deliver a diverse range of educational and recreational programs, while fostering community and opportunities for personal growth among students. Key responsibilities include managing camp registration and daily camp operations, coordinating activity schedules, and ensuring the program aligns with the school's goals and values. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and a passion for outdoor and creative education are essential for success in this role.

Skills and Qualities:

1. Minimum 2 years of experience in camp programming or event management, with a demonstrated ability to manage and lead activities, logistics, and teams.
2. Experience working with children in a group setting, ideally in an educational, recreational, or camp environment, with the ability to engage and manage a diverse group of students.
3. First Aid and CPR certified (or ability to obtain certification prior to the start of camp), with knowledge of safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
4. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly communicate with parents, students, staff, and other stakeholders, both in person and through written correspondence.
5. Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess situations, make decisions quickly, and handle unexpected challenges efficiently while maintaining a positive atmosphere.
6. Leadership experience, with the ability to motivate and coordinate group efforts, and deliver feedback to camp staff and volunteers.
7. A positive, energetic attitude and a commitment to creating a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment for all participants.

Responsibilities:

Program Management:

1. Develop, plan, and implement engaging camp programs and activities aligned with VWS’s goals.
2. Ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all campers by supervising and managing daily activities.
3. Adapt programs as needed based on camper needs, weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances, with the assistance and support of the Teacher Leads.

Registration & Administration:

1. Oversee the registration process and payments, ensuring timely and accurate enrollment for campers.
2. Communicate with parents regarding registration details, updates, and any necessary information, including weekly welcome letter.
3. Maintain accurate camper records, including medical forms, emergency contacts, and special needs or accommodations, and ensure proper communication to Teacher Leads.

Onsite Leadership:

1. Lead and coordinate camp staff, ensuring a positive and productive team environment.
2. Ensure camp activities are running smoothly and all safety protocols are being followed.
3. Handle any emergencies, incidents, or issues that arise during the camp day, making decisions as needed to maintain safety and camper well-being.
4. Lead daily debriefs with camp staff to review activities and ensure continuous improvement.

Staff & Camper Support:

1. Provide guidance and leadership to staff members, offering training and feedback where appropriate.
2. Provide 30 minute break for Teacher Leads in Junior and Senior camps.
3. Act as the main point of contact for parents, students, and staff onsite, providing clear communication and addressing concerns promptly.
4. Foster an inclusive and positive environment, promoting teamwork, personal growth, and social interaction among campers.

Collaboration:

1. Work closely with other Teacher Leads and support staff to ensure seamless camp operations.
2. Coordinate with external vendors, contractors, or guest speakers to enrich the camp experience, if required.

Logistical Coordination:

1. Manage camp resources, including ordering and picking up food, equipment, materials, and supplies, ensuring everything needed for activities is readily available.
2. Oversee transportation arrangements for field trips or special events, ensuring punctuality and safety.

Safety & Risk Management:

1. Enforce safety guidelines and camp policies, ensuring that campers and staff understand and adhere to them.
2. Conduct regular safety checks and ensure that all equipment and facilities are maintained and safe for use.
3. Monitor camper behavior and intervene when necessary to maintain a safe and respectful environment.

Remuneration

Job Type:Contracted seasonal position with an hourly rate of $30.00 per hour.

Contract length: Approximately 10 hours / week will be needed until June 1, 2025, increasing as necessary in June. Full time hours will commence on June 30 – August 1, 2025 (5 weeks / 8 hours per day). Additional hours may be required and will be discussed and confirmed in advance.

Work Location: Remote until June 1, 2025. On site during camp days from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (plus ½ hour break) from June 30 – August 1, 2025.

VWS Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Vancouver Waldorf School continually strives to be an equitable organization, providing educational environments where all community members experience a sense of belonging and contribution. In this spirit, we welcome, value, support, and affirm all backgrounds, experiences, and identities and challenge all inequity to create and strengthen our diverse and vibrant community, where the humanity of every individual is honoured. This includes but is not limited to all races, ethnicities, national origins, religions, economic backgrounds, abilities, neurodiversity, sexual orientations, and gender identities and expressions.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to hrc@vws.ca by Friday, May 2, 2025.