Outdoor Educator- Day Camp

Organization

The Little Blue Creche

Job Posted

February 15, 2025

Job status

Job Category

Job Type

Job Duration

Job Compensation Type

Remote

No

Contact Name

Melissa Bates Wilder

Contact Email

melbwilder@gmail.com

Contact Phone

8287128574

Deadline to Apply

Location

557 E Thompson Blvd.
Ventura, CA
United States
Our vision is to rewild childhood to rewild the planet. The Little Blue Creche is a Reggio-inspired nursery school (0-3 years), summer day camp (4-11 years), and coworking space for parents opening this Summer in Ventura, California. Our programs reflect our belief that children learn naturally through play, observation, investigation, and connection. We foster a love for exploration, creativity, and environmental stewardship through activities like kayaking, puddle play, forest exploration, creek discovery, and STEM-based education. Our camp embraces a forest school model, where children are guided in unstructured outdoor play and inquiry-based learning.

Summary

We seek two Outdoor Educators who can assist in leading our explorers (ages 4-7 years) and our adventurers (8-11 years) this summer. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s in Education, Outdoor Education, or Environmental Education and a deep understanding of nature-based education and the forest school model. Camp runs Monday-Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.

Start date: June 9, 2025-August 8, 2025

We seek candidates who are:

  • Sustainability minded
  • Flexible and creative
  • Experienced in nature-based or environmental education
  • Exceptional with children
  • Positive and open-minded
  • Happy in collaborative environments with families and educators
  • Lifelong learners 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. Possess a B.A. or B.S in a related field (Education, Outdoor Education, Environmental Education, Environmental Studies, or the like)
  2. At least 3 years of experience teaching children
  3. CPR and First Aid Certification
  4. Physical stamina to lead outdoor activities in all types of weather.

Preferred

  • Possess a M.A. or M.S in a related field (Child Development, Education, Outdoor Education, Environmental Education, or other.)
  • Leadership experience
  • Significant knowledge and experience with the forest school model or nature-based education

Position Overview:
We are looking for an enthusiastic, skilled, and adventurous Outdoor Educator to lead and inspire campers in a fun, safe, and educational outdoor setting. As an Outdoor Educator, you will facilitate a variety of activities that engage children in nature-based exploration, foster curiosity, and build STEM skills in the natural world. This role requires a balance of creativity, safety awareness, and environmental knowledge to help campers develop a lifelong appreciation for nature.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead Outdoor Activities:
    Guide groups of children in activities such as kayaking, forest exploration, creek exploration, puddle play, sand and water play, bike riding, and nature walks. Incorporate STEM concepts into these activities to promote problem-solving and curiosity-driven learning.
     
  • Create and Implement Nature-Based Curriculum:
    Plan and execute lessons based on the forest school model, ensuring that all activities encourage discovery, critical thinking, and hands-on learning. Emphasize environmental science, ecology, and natural history.
     
  • Foster Positive Relationships:
    Build strong, supportive relationships with campers, encouraging teamwork, respect for nature, and personal growth. Act as a mentor and role model to children.
  • Promote Safety and Well-being:
    Ensure the safety of campers during all outdoor activities, particularly when engaging in water-based activities like kayaking. Maintain awareness of potential risks and implement safety protocols to minimize them.
     
  • Team Collaboration:
    Work closely with other camp staff to create a positive, inclusive, and fun camp culture. Participate in weekly staff meetings and collaborate on event planning and camp-wide initiatives.
     
  • Environmental Stewardship:
    Model and encourage respect for the environment. Lead discussions about conservation, wildlife, and the importance of protecting natural spaces. Promote sustainable practices both in and outside of camp.
     

TO APPLY:

Please submit:

  • Cover letter
  • Resumé
  • Minimum of 3 references

Please address inquiries to Melissa B. Wilder, CEO. Please submit all documents by emailing them to info@bluecreche.com.

Compensation Information

The salary range for this position is $20-$25 an hour (commensurate with experience). This is an 8-week position and is perfect for those on summer break. One week of paid training is also required.