Program Coordinator-Early Childhood Educator 'Learning with the Land AHS'

Aboriginal Head Start Association of British Columbia is the operator of a childcare center in Nanaimo, BC.

Our Aboriginal Head Start Childcare Program is transforming to land-based programming.

We are looking for a passionate land-lover and Early Childhood Educator who can lead the transformation to operate the first land-based Aboriginal Head Start Program.

Our philosophy encompasses the vision that children’s physical, spiritual, emotional and mental wellbeing are connected to land and place. Healthy and happy communities are supported by the land we live on; we must be intentional at learning with the land for optimal wellbeing

Aboriginal Head Start Association of British Columbia honors diversity and offers an inclusive and caring work environment. A deep understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing and being is a necessary attribute for individuals interested in this role.

Candidates must be passionate about co-creating high-quality early childhood programs for Indigenous children and families. Interested applicants will focus attention on offering creative culturally grounded land-based programming through child-led and inquiry-based approach, fostering wonder and excitement for children. The intention of the AHS childcare program is to provide a rich inclusive early learning experience founded in Indigenous culture and language. This heart-centered work requires strong communication skills and interpersonal skills to engage in meaningful relationships with children and families.

Interested candidates must be familiar with the six programming components of Aboriginal Head Start Childcare programs: culture and language, parent and family involvement, social support, education, health promotion and nutrition.

The Program Coordinator will collaborate to lead the daily operations of the Learning with the Land Aboriginal Head Start Program. We Invite you to join our team to help our Association to be the best it can be for our children, families, staff and profession.

To learn about Aboriginal Head Start and AHSABC, visit www.ahsabc.com and find us on FaceBook at: https://www.facebook.com/aboriginalheadstartbc/

Responsibilities

1. To lead the transition planning, ongoing operating planning and delivery of high-quality land-based early years program in the Aboriginal Head Start Program, guided by the AHS Principles and Guidelines.

2. Commitment to grow caring relationships with children and families, reflecting AHS philosophy of and intergenerational family wellness program.

3. Oversight and support to ensure the diverse needs of children are met; including observations, care planning, implementation of care plan.

4. Support the team to implement an inquiry based, child-led approach to programming.

5. A personal commitment to grow the profession.

6. Participate in team meetings and professional development opportunities.

7. Promote and advocate for high quality early childhood education, Aboriginal Head Start services that reflect the AHS Principles and Guidelines and the BC Early Learning Framework.

Requirements

Holds a current Early Childhood Educator Certificate (Issued by the ECE Registry of BC)
Valid First Aid Certificate
Land-lover and passionate forest adventurer.
Experience and knowledge with Aboriginal Head Start.
Knowledge, experience, and awareness of diverse Indigenous cultures.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Professional written and oral communication skills.
Excellent documentation, time/priority management and organizational skills.
Ability to work independently, to analyze a situation, and to develop an approach and plan of action.
Creativity and innovation in inspiring high quality program delivery.
Working Conditions:

Compensation rate ECE at $30/hour plus $6 wage enhancement= $36/hour
Employment includes wellness days, employer paid extended health coverage, employer matched retirement plan.
Regular scheduled monthly and annual professional development closures to support quality programming.
Full-time, permanent position based on 35-40 hours per week.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $36.00 per hour

Benefits:

Company pension
Dental care
Extended health care
Paid time off
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-04-25