Per Diem Educator

Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center•Thetford, VT

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center seeks a creative, enthusiastic, and flexible Per Diem Educator to support and lead a variety of farm-based educational programs. Programs may include our Little Farmers early childhood program, field trips for visiting school groups, and other educational offerings for children and youth. Our place-based programs invite learners to make authentic observations and connections through hands-on experiences on the farm. We create learning environments that encourage curiosity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and exploration, while recognizing and celebrating different learning styles, abilities, and needs. This position is a great opportunity for someone looking to build experience and confidence facilitating groups of children outdoors. We're looking for someone who is inclusive, encouraging, comfortable being a little silly, and excited to help children develop a deeper connection to food, farming, nature, and the world around them. This position works approximately 8–12 hours per week, including program preparation and teaching time, from May through October. Hours and schedule may vary depending on program needs.

Requirements

Experience working with children in an educational, recreational, camp, childcare, or other group setting
Enthusiasm for experiential, place-based, and inclusive education
Passion for sharing food, farming, nature, and ecology with children and youth
Creativity, flexibility, and a willingness to adapt activities and teaching approaches to meet the needs of different learners
Ability to engage children and their caregivers with warmth, enthusiasm, and respect, and to build positive relationships with our community
Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work as part of a team
Physical ability to participate in outdoor, active programming, including walking around the farm, standing for extended periods, and working in a range of weather conditions

Responsibilities

Lead and support a variety of farm-based educational programs for children and youth
Facilitate engaging, age-appropriate, hands-on learning experiences focused broadly on food, farming, nature, and ecology
Lead groups of varying sizes and ages, from early childhood through upper grades
Create a welcoming, inclusive, fun, and safe learning environment for all participants
Encourage learners to explore the farm and surrounding ecosystem through observation, inquiry, movement, and sensory experiences
Adapt activities and teaching approaches to meet the needs and interests of individual learners and groups
Prepare for programs by reviewing lesson plans, gathering materials, and helping set up learning spaces
Develop or adapt activities and lesson plans in collaboration with the Education Team
Assist with program registration, participant check-in, and other program logistics as needed
Clean up after programs and return materials and spaces to their proper locations
Communicate with the Education Team about program needs, observations, and any questions or concerns that arise
Work collaboratively with educators and other farm staff
Perform other related duties and assignments as necessary