Ivy Prep Early Learning Academy

At Ivy Prep, we recognize the profound impact early childhood education has on shaping a child's future. We believe that every child holds incredible potential - like a seed ready to grow. Our mission is to provide a nurturing and inspiring environment where children develop confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love for learning.

Located in West Edmonton, Ivy Prep is more than a childcare centre - it is a vibrant learning community where children are encouraged to explore, discover, and flourish. Our specialised curriculum - The Ivy Method - is grounded in Alberta's FLIGHT framework and thoughtfully enriched with elements from both the Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches. Through hands-on experiences that integrate literacy, numeracy, language, and motor development, we support and promote optimum holistic development.

At Ivy Prep, we're not just preparing children for school - we're empowering them for life.

Position Summary:

At our academy, you are not just an employee, you are a valued educator, a collaborator, and a leader in shaping young minds. We believe in creating a workplace where Early Childhood Educators feel respected, supported, and empowered to grow. From ongoing professional development and mentorship to flexible scheduling and wellness supports, we invest in you so you can focus on what you do best- nurturing children's development. Our team culture is built on trust, inclusion, and shared purpose and we are proud to offer more than just a job, but a meaningful career where your contributions truly matter.

Discovery Forest Educator - The Ivy Method:

As a key member of our team, you will help create a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment for children aged 3-5 years and OSC children in our specialised Discovery Forest Room. In this unique role, you will lead the planning and delivery of The Discovery Forest learning components, the core of our signature Ivy Method curriculum. Your responsibilities will include facilitating unique, rich, hands-on learning experiences that foster children's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth through the lens of nature and discovery.

You will participate in ongoing professional development and receive training specific to the Ivy Method to ensure your practice aligns with our values and educational approach. As a Discovery Forest Educator, you will play a vital role in bringing learning to life and helping children build meaningful connections with themselves, others, and the world around them.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, lead, and evaluate engaging academic learning experiences grounded in the Ivy Method.
• Align Discovery Forest programming with children's interests and developmental needs, creating meaningful opportunities for exploration, risk-taking, and reflection.
• Incorporate seasonal cycles, and sensory-rich provocations to inspire curiosity and creativity.
• Facilitate collaborative planning sessions and reflective dialogues that support team understanding of emergent learning in other classroom environments (3 + years).
• Champion a team culture of respect, shared responsibility, and continuous improvement.
• Lead observation and documentation of children's learning journeys, using pedagogical narration to make thinking and discovery visible.
• Support the creation of classroom displays, portfolios, and communication tools that reflect children's engagement in Discovery Forest experiences.
• Foster strong relationships with families by sharing insights into children's learning and involving them in nature-based initiatives.
• Ensure all environments used in Discovery Forest meet high standards of safety, accessibility, and inspiration.
• Model and promote responsible interaction with the natural world, embedding eco-literacy and care into daily practice.
• Participate in and contribute to professional learning related to Ivy pedagogy.

Qualifications:

• Diploma or Degree in Early Childhood Education from a recognized post-secondary institution.
• Minimum of 1 to 3 years of progressive experience in the childcare field.
• Valid Alberta Child Care Certification: Level 3.
• Valid First Aid Certification (or willing to attain one).
• Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search (within 6 months or willing to attain one).
• Up-to-date immunizations (as required by Alberta Health Services).
• Strong understanding of child development and inclusive practices.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to fostering a respectful, professional, and collaborative workplace culture.

Assets:

• Familiarity with multiple curricula.
• Teaching experience in the early years sector.
• Additional early childhood education trainings or certifications.
• Bilingualism or additional languages.

What We Offer:

We are committed to supporting our Early Childhood Educators with the tools, resources, and environment they need to thrive. When you join our team, you can expect:

• Competitive wages based on certification and experience.
• Government wage top-ups.
• Comprehensive health benefits- In effect after probationary period.
• Ongoing professional development opportunities.
• A supportive and inclusive team environment.
• Opportunities for career growth within our organization.
• Staff wellness initiatives and team-building events.
• Paid vacation and statutory holidays.
• Staff social events and team appreciation days.
• Access to high-quality materials and resources.
• Supportive classroom ratios and administrative help.
• Digital tools to assist with programming and family communication.

We believe in investing in our educators because they are the heart of early learning.

Thank you to all applicants for their interest in this opportunity and in Ivy Prep Early Learning Academy. We sincerely appreciate the time and effort invested in each application. While we carefully review all submissions, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. We appreciate your understanding and wish you the best in your career endeavors.

Apply today and help shape the future - one child at a time.