We were outside all day, every day, before COVID-19 made it trendy!

We are fearless in the face of mud puddles.

We are armed with magnifying glasses, clipboards, and bird, insect, and plant research books.

We usually surpass our i-watch or Fitbit step goals by 10 am.

Our children are dressed in good-quality weather-appropriate outdoor clothing with at least a 10 000mm waterproof rating, because all of our families know that the Tuffo Brand muddy buddy won’t survive more than an hour in West Coast weather.

And we are looking for an equally fearless, enthusiastic, hilarious, smart and motivated educator to join our team in Richmond, BC.

Alderwood House School is an outdoor-based licensed, early learning program. We are a fair-pay employer, and our total compensation ranges from 18.00 (no license), 20.00 (ECEA)  28.50 (ECE), 29.50 (ITE).  We offer medical, dental, paid sick leave, 4 weeks paid vacation, 4 paid professional days, paid tuition to complete your ECE/ITE/SNE (accessing the Work BC Training grant) and RRSP matching (in lieu of pension).  Fair pay matters.

We typically work 4 day work weeks (30 – 36 hours a week), because let’s face it: that third day off means that “I believe in work-life balance” isn’t just a fancy catch phrase you can use on a dating profile.

Our educators who find a life-long home with us are those who genuinely want to grow and learn.  We have high professional standards, and our educators are able to meet the BC QAS exceeding standards in their planning, environment and relationships.  We believe in research-based teaching, and participate in professional development to support ongoing learning.

Perhaps most importantly, we believe in relationships.  Here’s a personal example: in 2020, I fell down the stairs and broke and dislocated some bones that turned out to be pretty important for things like being able to walk, sit, and generally live without pain.  The parent and teacher community rallied – without me asking for any help whatsoever – and I was delivered meals, given support in driving my children where needed, and teachers all took on aspects of my work that they could.  We know that it takes a village to care for children, and that means that we are a village.  Sometimes people move out of the village.  Sometimes new people move in.  But we are always a village, looking out for one another the best we can.  It’s not all roses and butterflies, but at least we have high quality rain gear, 4 season tents and the ability to sing baby shark together while we wait out the storms.

If this is the sort of work community you want to join, then maybe now is your chance.  You can send your resume to alderwoodinformation@alderwoodhouse.com.  We can’t wait to get to know you!

Still aren’t sure?  That’s ok – some of us like to dive in while others slowly tiptoe into unknown waters.  Check out our website at www.alderwoodhouse.com, and get to know more about our programs.