The Fanshawe Nature School program provides opportunities for participants to spend time in and with nature, using the principles of Forest and Nature School. These principles focus on providing repeated outdoor experiences that are participant-led, inquiry-based, emergent, and play- and place-based. Activities may include songs, stories, play, exploration, sit spots, hiking, and more!
At Fanshawe Nature School, the Owls and Owlets program is designed for participants aged 2 to 5 years old with their caregivers. Together, staff, volunteers, and participants learn and grow in nature through observation, play, and exploration. The program provides an opportunity for participants to discover new interests, practice taking risks, and enjoy time spent outdoors.
Position Responsibilities:
Working in partnership with Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) staff to run a weekly 1.5-hour Nature School program from April to May and October to November:
- Helping plan and facilitate outdoor play-based activities
- Nature school set-up and take-down assistance
- Providing supervision and support to caregivers and children aged 2-5 years old
- Time commitment: 1 day per week from 8:30 am-1:00 pm
Position Requirements:
- Outside tasks in various weather conditions
- Walking on uneven surfaces and trails
- Lifting approximately 20 lbs of weight (logs, bins, supplies, pulling wagons)
- Comfortable around all aspects of a campfire
- First aid training an asset
Prior Experience:
- Previous experience working with children in a childcare or school setting preferred
- Previous experience leading outdoor or nature-based activities preferred
- Passion for outdoor, environmental, and nature-based inquiry and learning
- Updated and clear vulnerable sector check required
- Transportation to and from Fanshawe Conservation Area required
Please send an expression of your interest in this volunteer position to Karlee Flear, UTRCA Community Education Coordinator, fleark@thamesriver.ca by March 15th, 2025.
Please send an expression of your interest in this volunteer position to Karlee Flear, UTRCA Community Education Coordinator, fleark@thamesriver.ca by March 15th, 2025.
Find out more about Fanshawe Nature School.