Summer Camp Counselor - Nature Camp

Description:

The Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania is seeking Lead Camp Counselors for our vibrant full-day Nature Explorers Camp. Our campers are between the ages of 4-10 years old and will be divided into groups based on age. Campers will spend most of their time outdoors in our beautiful arboretum setting, and counselors should have an interest in both nature and education. Counselors will plan engaging activities and the camp day will include hiking expeditions, science lessons, arts & crafts, and games. Counselors will work collaboratively with a team of education professionals at Morris. In addition, lead counselors will also help to direct an assistant camp counselor and CITs.

Summer Camp runs for six weeks from July 1st - August 9, 2024. Lead counselors will be paid for up to 39 hours a week (35 hours at camp, plus up to 1 hour for meetings and 3 hours each week for prep and planning time). There will also be a mandatory paid training from June 24-26.

Duties:

• Counselors must always participate; they help to lead activities and prep materials, build relationships with campers, and have fun while ensuring the physical and emotional safety of every child.
• Greet families and campers upon their arrival.
• Read the curriculum binder, be aware of available camp supplies, understand the layout of the gardens, and be ready to use this knowledge to lead children’s games and activities.
• Implement a week-long series of creative and engaging hands-on activities, based on our camp themes, that will educate and inspire children in an informal setting.
• Develop daily schedule to include time for multiple activities, snack, and lunch.
• Serve as a role model to campers and staff by maintaining a positive attitude and behavior.
• Model leadership skills for assistant counselor and CITs and work collaboratively with all staff.
• Follow and uphold all safety and security rules and procedures. Report any issues to supervisor.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• A proven track record of teaching young children as well as planning and implementing curriculum (required)
• Able to work outdoors all summer and spend long periods of time walking or playing games with children. (required)
• Serve as a role model to others at camp by maintaining a positive attitude and behavior (required)
• Participation in camp orientation prior to the start of camp (required)
• Strong background in the environmental sciences and natural studies (preferred)
• Love of nature and desire to share this experience with children (preferred)
• Candidates for the lead counselor position must be over 18.

* The University of Pennsylvania requires that all summer employees submit a fingerprinting, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record check, and Child Abuse clearance through the University’s Hire Right system. 

Optional Lesson Plan Submission: Candidates may submit a hypothetical lesson plan as a supplemental part of their application. The themes and descriptions for camp for 2024 can be found on our website.