COEO NEWS
FALL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
Please save the date in your calendars as registration for our Annual Fall Conference will be opening soon! Speaker and event information will be posted on the Conference section of the website soon also. Looking forward to seeing you at Camp Couchiching on September 22-24th!
There will be pre-conference workshops on Friday September 22nd, so look for more information on this coming soon!
AWARD NOMINATIONS
Do you know anyone who has been positively impacting children, youth and adults by connecting them to each other and to nature or who has been contributing to the larger community of outdoor education through their participation on the COEO Board of Directors or sub-committees? A great way to recognize their passion and dedication is to nominate them for one of COEO’s annual awards.
The Honourary Life Membership Award recognizes the substantial and lasting contributions of long-time and esteemed members of COEO who are a vital part of its traditions and successes.
The Dorothy Walter Award for Leadership was created in 1986 to give recognition to an individual who, like Dorothy Walter herself, has shown an outstanding commitment to the development of leadership qualities in Ontario youth and through outdoor education.
The Robin Dennis Award was created in tribute to Robin Dennis, one of the founders of Ontario outdoor education in the 1950s and 1960s. It is presented to an individual, outdoor education program or facility that has made an outstanding contribution to the promotion and development of outdoor education in the province. This award is open to non-members of COEO and the person making the nomination can also be a non-member of COEO.
The Amethyst Award, in memory of Brent Dysart is presented to an emerging professional new to the field of outdoor education. This award recognizes individual potential in those beginning a career. The recipient of the Amethyst Award receives a complimentary one-year membership to COEO and free admittance to the annual fall conference.
You can find out more about these awards and how to nominate a deserving colleague or organization at https://www.coeo.org/recogn
OTHER OEE & RELATED NEWS
Human Kinetics Canada: Monthly Book Discount Offer
Order now and get your Members-only special discount through HK Canada. Another great membership benefit brought to you by The Council of Outdoor Educators of Ontario. Use code W914 to receive Free Shipping on orders of $25 or more + get 40% off if you sign up for HKRewards. Click here to sign up! Good for 1x use only. Offer expires 07/31/2017.
The ability to enter into a flow state of mind will help any runner overcome the psychological barriers associated with a race. With Running Flow, pioneering flow researcher Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi gives you tools and strategies for experiencing the power of flow. For more details click here
New EcoSource Resource: ReRooted in Play
Want to know more about inclusivity in the garden?
Ecosource’s latest resource works to support educators to provide hands-on, garden-themed activities for children, youth and adults of all abilities. This resource aims to reduce barriers and encourage
educators to facilitate physically active and fun outdoor learning that is inclusive for all.
Download the Access Companion Guide here.
Save the Date! Trailhead Canada
Canada’s 2017 – 150 Anniversary National Trails Celebration
For full details: https://trailheadcanada.com/home/
OEE P.D. OPPORTUNITIES
Climate Change Challenges: Educators Exploring Opportunities
July 12 – 14, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
This is for Grade 7-12 Educators of all subjects, School Administrators and System Leaders who wish to explore how to address the complexity of climate change learning through a professional inquiry approach and explore how to support climate change action projects that will bring inquiry and project-based learning for their students.
Click here for more information.
People-Powered Movements: Using Citizen Science to Change the World
July 25, NAAEE Webinar
Please join us for the next instalment of NAAEE’s monthly webinar series (Bringing New Ideas and Innovation to the field of EE). On Tuesday, July 25 from 3-4 pm EST, we will hear from Mary Ford (National Geographic) and Danny Edelson (BSCS) who will share their expertise in using citizen science to promote learning and increase our impact.
Click here for more information.
Learning & Play in the Outdoors
Summer & Fall, Toronto, Ontario
Are you an educator who wants to learn how (and why!) to incorporate nature-based learning into your everyday practice through professional learning workshops? Stay tuned for updates on 2017-2018 professional learning opportunities for teachers, administrators and early childhood educators at Evergreen Brick Works. You will have the opportunity to engage in creative activities and inquiry-based approaches in our imaginative outdoor play and learning environment.
Click here for more information.
Natural Playscape Design Workshop with Rusty Keeler
Internationally renowned playscape designer, Rusty Keeler, presents a workshop on natural playscape design.
Cost is $175* + hst (light refreshments included)
*A $25 discount will apply when you register for Rusty Keeler’s keynote and gourmet dinner on September 27th.
More info here:
http://childnature.ca/
Earthplay’s Website: http://earthplay.net/
Making Authentic Inquiry Work!
August 23 – 24, Toronto, ON
This Learning for a Sustainable Future & Natural Curiosity workshop focuses on creating learning experiences that put students in the driver’s seat to propel their own learning, leading to responsible active citizenship.
Click here for more information
Wild Education Adventures
September 21 – 24, Algonquin Provincial Park, ON
Wild Education Adventures is CWF’s professional learning program for educators. This one of a kind experiential learning program blends graduate level studies in education from top professors with travel on the landscape.
Click here for more information.
Leaders of the Day
Paddle Canada Certification Programs with Leaders of the Day
Nationally recognized certifications delivered by expert wilderness Instructors
Paddle Canada Advanced Level Canoe Tripping + Introduction to Lake Skills Combo.
*This is the current certification required by O.P.H.E.A. to take students on canoe expeditions
August 20th to 25th 2017 in the Algonquin Interior
http://www.leadersoftheday.com/skills-certifications/advanced-canoe-tripping-tandem-and-solo/
Guide Star Training Program: 4 Great Certifications in just 8 days!
August 20th to 27th in the Algonquin Interior
– Paddle Canada Advanced Canoe Tripping
– Paddle Canada Introduction to Lake Skills
– Wilderness and Survival Skills Program
– Back-country Navigation Level 1
http://www.leadersoftheday.com/skills-certifications/guide-star-certification-program/
Upcoming Green Teacher Webinars
Best Practices in School Gardens
Presenter: Mary Dudley
Wednesday, September 27th 2017, 7:30-8:30pm EST
Eco-System Monitoring Programs
Presenter: Daniel Shaw
Wednesday, October 25th 2017, 7:30-8:30pm EST
UPCOMING CONFERENCES
Nature-based Preschool National Conference
August 3-5, 2017, Seattle, Washington
http://naturalstart.org/nature-preschool/nature-based-preschool-national-conference
International Play Association World Conference
September 13-17, 2017, Calgary, Alberta
9th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC)
September 9-15, 2017, Vancouver, British Columbia
Title/theme will be Culturenvironment: Weaving new connections
http://www.environmental-education.org/
NAAEE 2017 Annual Conference
October 17 – 21, Puerto Rico
NAAEE annual conference for environmental education professionals, from classroom teachers and teacher educators to nature center staff to climate science researchers and everyone in between. The event is designed to promote innovation, networking, learning, and dissemination of best practices.
Click here for more information.
Association for Experiential Education 2017 International Conference
November 9-11, 2017, Montreal, Quebec
http://www.aee.org/annual-conference-
LEAP Conference 2018
February 28th, 2018, Ancaster, Ontario
https://www.universe.com/events/58adc036cf70b600365da6a5
JOB POSTINGS
Instructor/Residential Care Worker (Full time, Permanent), Wendigo Lake Expeditions
Instructors/Residential Care Workers for Project DARE & REACH Residential Adventure Therapy Programs provide direct service programming including delivery of the intensive therapeutic and behaviour management program; facilitating adventure activities ranging from games/initiatives, low and high ropes courses and other challenge activities; leading wilderness expeditions; supporting the school program; and facilitating life skills programming including cooking and daily chores routines.
Instructors typically possess a relevant college diploma or university degree and some work experience relevant to working with youth in a residential/treatment or adventure setting. Instructors are required to have, or quickly obtain certifications for:
- Bronze Cross
- First Aid/CPR
- F-class driver’s license, and pleasure craft operator’s card.
Instructors are paid a variable per diem based on work experience, services provided, and level of responsibility. A typical annual income ranges from $32,000-$42,000 plus benefits including an extended health care plan. Work schedules vary per program, but average 15-18 days per month. If you are well-qualified, enjoy the challenge of working with youth who have very challenging behaviours, and would like to work as a member of a motivated team of exceptional people within a culture of support and feedback, send a cover letter and resume to: jobs@wendigolake.com
Board Positions (volunteer), Outdoor Council of Canada
This year, positions up for re-election include the Vice-President, Director of Membership, Indigenous Director, Director for Canada North, Director for the Prairies and the Director for Québec.
Our current Vice-President has confirmed his intentions to step down once this year’s cycle is completed. Consequently, we are now looking for a qualified candidate. As you know, we have made a lot of progress in the past few years. This is mostly due to the good work done by our volunteers and Board members are a central part of our volunteer team. The Vice-President’s main areas of focus are to ensure the OCC remains on target, develop new fundraising opportunities and support the President’s role. If you are interested in this role, please contact the President at: berniewoods@shaw.ca
Fall 2017 Instructor Positions, ALIVE Outdoors
The philosophy of ALIVE Outdoors is grounded in the belief that students should have the opportunity to realize their potential. This realization begins with students understanding their personal strengths and how these strengths can contribute to being an active and engaged person living with intention. In a society that encourages competition, one of our objectives is to create experiences where students learn the value of collaboration. At ALIVE, we believe this starts with developing and continuously deepening respectful and authentic relationships with self, others and nature.
Minimum Requirements:
- 21 Years of Age
- Clean and Current Vulnerable Sector Check
- Standard First Aid and CPR Level C
- Two professional references that are able to comment on your character as well as your capabilities as an educator.
For more information on working for ALIVE or to apply, please click here.
After-school Care Teacher
Part-time contract September 6, 2017 to June 15, 2018
Trillium Waldorf School is currently accepting applications for an After-School Care Teacher (Part-Time) for the 2017-18 school year
- The After-school Care Program is provided for mixed ages of students from Kindergarten to Grade 8, from Monday to Friday from 3:30 to 5:30 pm.
- The Care Teacher is responsible for the care, safety and well-being of the students, which involves establishing and maintaining a warm and consistent rhythm, including outdoor and indoor play, quiet activities, and snack.
- The After-school Care teacher is also responsible for completing attendance and billing paperwork, communicating with parents and teachers, preparation and maintenance of classroom space, shopping for food, and often securing the building at the end of the day.
KEY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION:
- Waldorf Teacher Education certification or some Waldorf teacher training and/or experience would be an asset, along with demonstrated ability to work within Waldorf guidelines and philosophy.
- Experience working with children of various age groups, and ability to create a warm connection with children.
- Good student management skills.
- Responsible and dependable.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills; approachable for students, parents and colleagues.
- Willingness and proven ability to work within a community environment.
- Ability to work well independently.
- Current CPR and First-Aid training, and familiarity with emergency procedures and health and safety protocols.
CONTRACT TERMS: September 6, 2017 to June 15, 2018
SALARY RANGE: $17.28 to $22.75/ hour based on experience
DEADLINE: Noon on July 14, 2017
We invite interested applicants to send a cover letter, résumé, and references to:
Human Resources Committee ~ Trillium Waldorf School
540 Victoria Road North Guelph, ON N1E 6Z4
Fax: 519-821-0453
Program Coordinator, YMCA Camp Pine Crest
Responsibilities
- Provides direct program support and delivery to all ages, groups and families, while building positive relationships.
- Assists Assistant Outdoor Centre Director to coordinate group information to ensure high quality experiences for all clients.
- Acts as host and facilitator for individuals and groups, providing excellent customer service and ensuring overall satisfaction with camp and facilities, programs and staff.
- Assists full time staff in the research of outdoor education curriculum and programs, making recommendations and providing input into development and implementation of new and revised programs.
- Supports and mentors Assistant Outdoor Educators throughout programs and trainings.
- Monitors the safety of all activities and programs throughout the duty period and responds immediately to rectify any safety concerns.
- Assists with general maintenance and cleanliness of site and provides support with other duties as required.
- Responsible for sharing on-call duties.
- Demonstrates appropriate behaviours in line with our Mission, Vision and Values as reflected in our YMCA competencies; takes a member focused approach to increase their understanding of programs offered across the Association. Represents the YMCA and the Association in a professional manner.
- Understands the legal responsibilities and moral imperative to report suspected child abuse to Child Protection Services.
- Understands the importance of the volunteer staff partnership and integrates the value of philanthropy and volunteerism in dealings with members, volunteers, donors and staff.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Working towards and/or completion of some Post-Secondary courses in outdoor recreation or related field is an asset
- Minimum of 5 seasons related experience in Outdoor Education in the areas of program facilitation, group coordinating, program development and staff mentoring and support
- Challenge Course/High Ropes training and experience is a strong asset Canoe trip and hiking trip leading experience an asset
- Ability to work effectively with others and independently to achieve optimal collective results
- Well-developed interpersonal, and relationship building skills; ability to establish rapport and excellent communication with members, staff and volunteers
- Excellent written communication skills
- Commitment to working in a socially inclusive environment responding with sensitivity and personal awareness to the diverse needs of members including visible and non-visible dimensions of diversity
- Current Standard First Aid and CPR “C” required
- National Lifeguard Service award required
- Flexibility regarding assigned working hours, including days, evenings, overnights, weekends and holidays required The position requires the following Association Competencies: advanced competence in: Effective Interpersonal Communications; being Member Focused fundamental competence in: Ethics and Self-Management; Relationship Building and Partnering; being Results Focused; Teamwork and Collaboration; Valuing Diversity & Social Inclusion
| Pay – Starting Rate: $583/week |
| Effective – September 4 – October 20, 2017 |
| Hours – Flexibility regarding assigned working hours, including days, evenings, overnights, weekends and holidays required |
| Reports to – Assistant Director, Outdoor Centre |
| Location/Region – YMCA Camp Pine Crest, Torrance, ON |
| Application Deadline – July 07, 2017 |
Click here to apply.
Fall Program Instructor Part-time Contract, YMCA Wanakita
The Fall Outdoor Centre Program Instructor is a contract position responsible for delivering and facilitating recreational and educational programs throughout the season. The instructor is primarily responsible for programming (canoeing, kayaking, swimming, high ropes, initiatives, archery, environmental programs, out trips etc.) and site support. The Fall Outdoor Program Instructor will report directly to the Program Coordinator under the supervision of the Outdoor Centre Director.
Contract dates are August 28th – October 25th, 2017.
Click here for the full job description. Deadline for applying is July 31st, 2017.
Assistant Outdoor Educator, YMCA Cedar Glen Outdoor Centre
Assistant Outdoor Educators provide direct program delivery in all outdoor education programs, including leadership and team building activities for groups of all ages. In addition, Assistant Outdoor Educators assist the Outdoor Centre Director and Assistant Outdoor Centre Director with the development of new programs, as well as the revision and updating of existing programs.
Shared staff accommodation is available on-site in our staff cottage.
Responsibilities:
- Provides direct program delivery to participants of all ages, including elementary and secondary school groups, colleges and universities, retreats, youth groups, sports teams, conferences and other youth and adult groups. Outdoor programs include activities such as low and high ropes courses, archery, orienteering, fire building, shelter building, initiatives and many more.
- Monitors the safety of all activities and programs throughout the duty period and responds immediately to rectify any safety concerns.
- Acts as host and facilitator for individuals and groups, ensuring overall satisfaction with facilities, programs and staff.
- Assists with general maintenance and cleanliness of site and provides support with other duties as required.
- Continuously builds relationships with members, staff, volunteers and community partners.
- Other responsibilities could include assisting in the research and development of outdoor education/leadership programs and the marketing and promotion of Cedar Glen.
- Demonstrates appropriate behaviours in line with our Mission, Vision and Values as reflected in our YMCA competencies; takes a member focused approach to increase their understanding of programs offered across the Association. Represents the YMCA and the Association in a professional manner.
- Understands the legal responsibilities and moral imperative to report suspected child abuse to Child Protection Services.
- Understands the importance of the volunteer staff partnership and integrates the value of philanthropy and volunteerism in dealings with members, volunteers, donors and staff.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Working towards and/or completion of some post-secondary courses in outdoor recreation or related field is an asset
- Experience in outdoor education/leadership role is an asset
- Challenge Course/High Ropes training and experience is an asset
- Bilingualism (French/English) is an asset
- Ability to work effectively with others and independently to achieve optimal collective results
- Well-developed interpersonal, and relationship building skills; ability to establish rapport and excellent communication with members, staff and volunteers
- Excellent written communication skills
- Commitment to working in a socially inclusive environment responding with sensitivity and personal awareness to the diverse needs of members including visible and non-visible dimensions of diversity
- Current Standard First Aid and CPR “C” required
- National Lifeguard Service award is an asset
- Flexibility regarding assigned working hours, including days, evenings, overnights, weekends and holidays required
- The position requires the following Association Competencies: advanced competence in: Effective Interpersonal Communications; being Member Focused fundamental competence in: Ethics and Self-Management; Relationship Building and Partnering; being Results Focused; Teamwork and Collaboration; Valuing Diversity & Social Inclusion
Please send cover letter and résumé quoting job posting #197, and indicating which contract term you are applying for (ex. Sept. 5 – Nov. 19 or Sept. 5 – Jan. 7) by Friday, July 14, 2017 to:
Gord Dunlop, Outdoor Centre Director
YMCA Cedar Glen Outdoor Centre 13300 11th Concession Schomberg, ON L0G 1T0
Email: gordon.dunlop @ ymcagta.org
F: 905-859-6750
Canoe Guide, Voyageur Quest
Location: Algonquin Park (Access Pt #1), Ontario (near South River / Parry Sound District
Voyageur Quest is looking for a canoe guide to work 3 and 5-day canoe trips at the North West corner of Algonquin Park for our summer/fall season 2017. Over 80% of our staff have returned this year and our volume is tracking greater than expected. Canoe Guide applicants should have an exceptional canoeing tripping background, applicants should have strong leadership skills and be comfortable speaking about Algonquin flora, fauna, night sky and local culture in front of an adult commercial and family market. Solid interpretative and program skills are required. Our guides love to teach our guests about the wonders of Algonquin Park. Warmth and Hospitality skills are essential.
Applicants should have the following certification:
- Wilderness First Responder
- Bronze Cross or higher (NLS) swimming lifeguard status
- Strong leadership experience in a wilderness environment
- Strong canoe tripping background preferably in a commercial setting
- ORCKA Canoe Tripping 3 would be an asset.
- ORCKA Basic Canoe Instructor an asset
All Canoe Guides must have:
- Personal Paddle, PFD, tent & personal camping gear used for tripping
- Comprehensive wilderness First Aid Kit
- Driver’s license and car an asset to allow for transport to and fro. Bus and occasional shuttle may be available
Contracts available from:
- now to Oct 6th 2017 or
- from Sept 4th, 2017
From $135 to $175 (Commensurate with experience) plus tips
Lakeside cabin accommodation available while off trip.
Interested candidates should fax or e-mail a résumé ASAP with cover letter to:
info 
voyageurquest.com*
Various Outdoor Education positions (including Canoe/Voyageur Guides, and Camp Counsellors), Great Moose Adventures
Great Moose Adventures prides itself as a highly respected, quality Outdoor Education Centre. To achieve this status, we rely on an amazing staff of hard working, passionate, skilled outdoor educators, teachers, ECE’s and young professionals. As such we are always on the look out for new candidates and fresh faces. Please visit our website to see a list of current job openings, including details and requirements.
Click here for the full job descriptions and application details.
Multiple Opportunities at Outward Bound Canada
Outward Bound Canada’s greatest asset is our instructional staff. Accomplished outdoor educators with extensive technical and facilitation skills, and the passion and compassion to inspire students to learn, our instructors come from all walks of life with a vast array of talents and experiences. Some have worked extensively in outdoor education, while others come from university programs or other career paths. We value group facilitation skills, life experience, passion, dedication, resiliency, and teaching ability as highly as technical proficiency.
Click here to find links to multiple job opportunities.
Summer Nature Camp Program Staff, p.i.n.e. project
The Primitive Integrated Naturalist Education (p.i.n.e.) project is a registered non-profit organization created to bring the wonders of the natural world back to the urban jungle. p.i.n.e.’s mission is to inspire healthy, lifelong connections between people and nature through outdoor-based learning and play.
This is a paid position working under the supervision of the p.i.n.e. camp directors. All program staff will be expected to work five day camp weeks, with weekends and statutory holidays off. Special notes: Each week of camp has a Thursday evening campfire that staff are expected to attend and participate in, from 6:30pm-8:15pm, along with the camp take-down weekend from Aug. 26-27, 2017.
For more info on these camps, check out their pages on our website: https://www.pineproject.org
Interested applicants are asked to forward their cover letter and resume by email to Eileen, Camps Coordinator. Please use the subject line “Summer Camps Staff Application 2017: [Your Name]”. Applications will continue to be reviewed until all positions are filled.
Outdoor Leadership Experience (OLE) Field Instructor (Full-time), Pine River Institute
Pine River Institute is an innovative co-ed residential treatment program for teens struggling with addictive behaviours. We are a family-centered program comprised of 4 phases: Wilderness (Outdoor Leadership Experience), Residential, Transition, and Aftercare. Every student, upon entering the program, spends 8 or more weeks in Algonquin Park before moving to the residence. Day-to-day activities in wilderness include canoeing, hiking, snowshoeing, group initiatives, group and individual therapy, and journaling. Youths live and work in nature in groups of up to eight, with three staff.
Our campus is situated on 200 acres of spectacular Niagara Escarpment land near Shelburne, Ontario. The program here includes outdoor education, individual, group, and family therapy, expressive arts, athletics, and life skills, as well as the more traditional academic offerings.
We are currently seeking experienced Wilderness Field Instructors to help us deliver this unique program, primarily in Algonquin Park and also at the Shelburne campus. We are looking for individuals with the qualifications and related experience in Wilderness field work, demonstrated sound judgment, integrity, patience, commitment, an ability to maintain clear boundaries, and a sense of humour. The primary responsibility of the Field Instructor is to deliver the Outdoor Leadership Experience program; ensure group safety, teach basic wilderness skills, solidify course logistics, and maintain focus on the therapeutic elements of the wilderness experience.
The schedule is run on a rotation of 8 days in the field (in South River area), 2 days off, 4 days working at the campus near Shelburne, and 7 days off shift. The role is challenging and rewarding for the right candidate. If you want to make a difference and believe you have the right stuff, we want to hear from you! Click here for more details.
We offer competitive compensation, and the opportunity to be part of an exciting and innovative program. Interested candidates should send resume and cover letter to Gayle Dennison, Human Resources Manager hr@pineriverinstitute.com or fax to 519-925-9220.
ONTARIO CAMPS ASSOCIATION – JOB BOARD
The OCA Job Board is always an excellent place to find job postings in the field of outdoor education. Check out their website, as many full-time positions at outdoor centres and camps are now being advertised.
ABOUT THIS ELECTRONIC NEWSLETTER
For consistency, the COEO electronic newsletter is now published on the first of each month. Anyone having an item of interest to outdoor & experiential educators and desiring publication in this newsletter needs to submit it to newsletter@coeo.org at least two days before the publication date.
The newsletter is generally organized according to the following headings: COEO News, Other OEE & Related News, P.D. Opportunities, Opportunities for Students, Resources, Job Postings. If your organization wishes to post information (e.g., notice of upcoming events, etc), it needs to be an organizational member of COEO.
If you would like to be removed from COEO’s eNewsletter mailing list, please send an email to newsletter@coeo.org and ask to be unsubscribed.