ABOUT US
Located on 420 acres of ecological reserve lands in the Cheakamus River Valley near Squamish, BC, Outdoor School is the flagship K-12 program at the Cheakamus Centre, a world-class learning centre that brings together the values of environmental stewardship and sustainability to support an exceptional program of experiential outdoor education and hospitality.
JOB DESCRIPTION
This short-term volunteer position plays a supporting role in the educational programming at the Cheakamus Centre. Duties to be undertaken will include acting as a leadership mentor for youth, supporting high school counsellors, visiting teachers and Outdoor School staff during programs, updating program materials and participating in stewardship initiatives. This volunteer position is a great opportunity to develop skills and gain experience in environmental education and youth leadership through close mentorship by program staff.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Assist ODS program staff in supporting youth leadership on field studies and during afternoon and evening programs
Provide program support to visiting teachers and Cheakamus Centre staff
Assist Cheakamus Centre staff with stewardship initiatives
Assist ODS program staff with the training of high school counsellors
Assist ODS program staff to update program materials
Develop environmental education resources
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
First Aid Certificate – OFA Level 1
Experience working with children and/or youth in outdoor educational setting
Strong interest in developing leadership skills
Strong interest in stewardship initiatives
Works effectively independently and in a collaborative team environment
Ability to work varied hours including evenings and occasional weekends
Friendly, positive and enthusiastic approach
Strong communications skills
DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Valid driver’s license
Experience with the Outdoor School program, and its mission, vision, values and goals (http://www.cheakamuscentre.ca)
Strong interest in West Coast ecology and its natural & cultural history
Proficiency in computer and internet use including Microsoft Office
BENEFITS OF POSITION
The volunteer will gain valuable experience assisting with outdoor education programs
Develop strong leadership skills through direct supervision and mentorship
Gain demonstrated experience supervising children and youth
Participate in and learn about local stewardship initiatives
Gain experience developing educational program materials
Build knowledge of local natural and cultural history
Gain confidence and public speaking skills
VOLUNTEER POSITION TERMS
January – May 1 2016 (excluding holidays and non-programming times)
COMPENSATION
Room & Board, environmental education and leadership training + small honorarium are provided.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Email a cover letter stating why you are the best person for this opportunity, along with your résumé to:
jobs@cheakamuscentre.ca
APPLICATION DEADLINE
December 14, 2015