Teaching Assistant

Westside Waldorf School; Central Ontario; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Westside Waldorf School is seeking a caring and versatile Teaching Assistant for their Kindergarten and Elementary classes. This full-time role involves collaborating with teachers and independently managing the classroom, particularly on Fridays. Ideal candidates will have experience with early childhood education, be familiar with Waldorf principles, and possess the ability to create a nurturing learning environment. The position offers a salary between CAD 18-23 per hour, a comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for professional development in a values-driven community.

Benefits

Benefits package including tuition remission for staff children

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in early childhood and/or elementary settings required.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Current Standard First Aid & CPR certification or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Support Kindergarten and Elementary Lead Teachers during instructional time.
• Lead the Elementary Grades classroom independently every Friday.
• Assist with nature-based and artistic activities.

Skills

Experience working with children

Warmth and confidence in leading a classroom

Nature-based learning familiarity

Education

Waldorf Teacher Training or coursework

Standard First Aid & CPR certification

Job description

Job Description: Teaching Assistant

Position Title: Teaching Assistant – Kindergarten & Elementary Grades

School: Cedar Grove School

Position Type: Full-Time (1.0 FTE), Salaried

Start Date: Targeting mid-August, with the possibility of an earlier start for onboarding or preparation

Location: Prince Edward County, Ontario

About Cedar Grove School

Cedar Grove School is inspired by Waldorf education. We are an independent K-4* school rooted in nature, relationships, and child development. We honour the phases of childhood and seek to nurture the whole child—head, heart, and hands—through a curriculum that fosters creativity, compassion, independent thinking, and resilience. Located on a regenerative farm in Prince Edward County, we offer a unique blend of nature immersion and Waldorf pedagogy, supported by a close-knit and values-driven community.

*over time, the school aims to expand programming to Gr. 8

Position Summary

We are seeking a caring and versatile Teaching Assistant to support both our Kindergarten and Elementary classes. The successful candidate will work closely with the Lead Teachers throughout the week, and independently manage the Elementary Grades classroom every Friday. This role requires someone who is dependable, collaborative, and deeply aligned with Waldorf principles and the natural rhythms of children.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Kindergarten and Elementary Lead Teachers during instructional time, outdoor activities, and transitions.
• Manage and lead the Elementary Grades class on Fridays, implementing prepared lessons and maintaining classroom rhythm.
• Manage and lead After care program.
• Assist with nature-based, hands-on, and artistic activities.
• Help maintain a safe, calm, and nurturing learning environment.
• Support classroom setup, cleanup, and daily rhythm tasks.
• Guide children through imitation, modeling, and gentle redirection.
• Participate in school festivals, seasonal celebrations, professional development and faculty meetings.
• Communicate regularly with Lead Teachers to ensure alignment in student support.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children in early childhood and/or elementary settings.
• Familiarity with Waldorf education, Forest School principles, or nature-based learning.
• Capacity to lead a classroom with warmth, confidence, and structure.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Current Standard First Aid & CPR (or willingness to obtain).
• Clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening.

Preferred Assets

• Waldorf Teacher Training or coursework (completed or in progress).
• Forest School Practitioner training or experience.
• Background in music, storytelling, visual or practical arts.
• Experience supporting neurodiverse learners or mixed-age classrooms.

Compensation

This is a full-time position paid on an hourly basis, with a compensation range of $18–$23 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. Weekly hours and total paid weeks per year may vary depending on the school calendar and program needs. In addition to pay, Cedar Grove School offers a benefits package, including tuition remission for staff children, and professional development opportunities.

Why Join Us

• Be part of a values-aligned school on a beautiful farm campus.
• Play a key role in a collaborative and supportive teaching team.
• Professional development opportunities in Waldorf and outdoor education.
• A meaningful, heart-centered work environment where you can grow.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume, a letter of interest describing your connection to Waldorf or nature-based education, and two references to [e-mail]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Cedar Grove School is committed to creating a caring, inclusive learning environment where children feel seen, valued, and supported. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.