Early Learning Educator

Early Learning Educator

Position: Early Learning Educator

Reporting to: Manager of Early Learning and Childcare

Department: Early Learning and Childcare

Summary

First Light is a registered non-profit organization that serves the urban Indigenous and non-Indigenous community alike by providing programs and services rooted in the revitalization, strengthening and celebration of Indigenous cultures and languages in the spirit of trust, respect, and friendship.

First Light’s Early Learning & Childcare centre programming is offered through specific Family Resource programs and targeted early learning education services. This role will seek to serve a combination of team needs by supporting both early learning demands of First Light’s childcare services as well as progressing and supporting the facilitation of family resource programs.

The Early Learning Educator plays a key role in planning and implementing high-quality programming that ensures the health, safety, and well-being of all children. As a hybrid float position, this role offers flexible coverage across multiple classrooms, age groups, and program settings, providing consistent support to families through a holistic approach. The educator also contributes by administering, planning, and facilitating culturally relevant activities in collaboration with the team. At First Light, the Early Learning and Childcare team focuses on developing programs that address the physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and cultural needs of children and families, ensuring that all programs are tailored to support the diverse needs of the community.

Core Skill Set

  • Effective communication skills for youth and families.
  • Approachable with strong relationship building skills.
  • Strong attention to detail and proficiency in maintaining organized records.
  • Innovative in creating developmentally & culturally relevant programs and activities that engage families.
  • The ability to deliver a variety of developmentally appropriate and traditional teachings.
  • Strong organizational skills with a focus on smooth and efficient operations.
  • Strong time management skills.
  • Adaptable to changing circumstances, varying youth and family needs.
  • Focused on continuous improvement to adjust programming or approaches to better meet the unique cultural or social dynamics of Indigenous families.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Collaboratively plan, develop, and deliver culturally relevant programs and services (both indoors and outdoors) by designing and implementing programs that incorporate Indigenous culture, traditions, and values.
  • Practice a holistic approach that supports the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being of families and children, tailoring activities to respect the diverse needs and backgrounds of community members.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with diverse groups, including Indigenous families, elders, community members, and external stakeholders.
  • Facilitate with an empathetic and compassionate approach, fostering trust and comfort in Early Learning and childcare settings.
  • Refer community members to culturally appropriate services and collaborate with external agencies to ensure families receive the care and resources they need.
  • Support and promote family well-being by developing and facilitating programs that address the needs of children, parents, and caregivers.
  • Collaborate with the Childcare Coordinator and the Manager of Early Learning to maintain transparency and current program reporting on program developments, successes, and challenges.
  • Proactively address issues as they arise, collaborating with the team for solutions to improve program delivery and family support services.

Qualifications

  • Strong understanding of Indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions or willingness to learn.
  • Ability to engage, build trust, and support a diverse range of families, with conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
  • Certified Early Childhood Educator through AECENL, with experience in childcare programming, or a willingness to obtain.
  • First Aid with CPR certification (child).
  • Knowledge of early childhood development, parenting programs, and family support services, or willingness to learn.
  • Strong communication & interpersonal skills.
  • Lived experience or deep connections to communities and knowledge keepers considered an asset.
  • Compassionate, patient, adaptable, and committed to supporting children and families.
  • Clear criminal record check and vulnerable sector screening.
  • Reliable transportation.

Apply now by sending your resume and cover letter to [email protected] by February 3rd

Preference will be given to qualified Indigenous residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. 

First Light celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all members of our team. We welcome applications from all qualified  candidates regardless of Indigenous identity or status, national or other origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, or other characteristics. We’re committed to supporting candidates throughout the application process by accommodating any disability-related requests.