Now Hiring: Learning Program Manager - Second Nature School (Ottawa, ON)

About Second Nature

At Second Nature School, we're doing education differently. Our elementary-level therapeutic program is rooted in neuro-affirming, trauma-informed, and child-led practices that honour each learner's unique story. Grounded by nature, our students thrive in an environment built on safety, connection, and co-regulation - not compliance.

We don't just support children; we walk alongside families, educators, and communities as we reshape what safe, meaningful education can look like.

The Role

We are seeking a Learning Program Manager to join our leadership team and hold space for the heart of our programming. This is a full-time, on-site role in Ottawa, ON, responsible for leading our instructional team, supporting curriculum development, and ensuring the delivery of consistent, values-driven care and learning.

This position combines educational leadership, therapeutic insight, and program coordination, ideal for someone who can hold both vision and structure - with gentleness and strength.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, supervision, and support to the Lead Instructors and Instructor Therapists/Teachers
• Oversee the planning and implementation of individualized, neuro-affirming learning plans
• Ensure day-to-day operations align with Second Nature's trauma-informed, low-demand, child-led approach
• Collaborate with the CEO and School Administrator on staffing, scheduling, admissions, and policy development
• Monitor and support program quality, staff wellbeing, and professional development
• Support in hiring, onboarding, and mentorship of new team members
• Serve as a primary liaison between families, staff, and community partners
• Foster a culture of collaboration, safety, and continuous reflection
• Address crisis situations and ensure adherence to safety protocols, with a focus on emotional regulation and relational repair

Qualifications

• A strong foundation in neurodiversity, trauma-informed care, and alternative or therapeutic education models
• Proven experience leading and supervising teams in educational, clinical, or therapeutic settings
• Familiarity with IEPs, strength-based interventions, and individualized learning plans
• Exceptional skills in communication, leadership, and problem-solving
• An ability to stay grounded and compassionate in emotionally complex situations
• A degree in Education, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field (Master's level preferred)
• Experience working with neurodivergent children and their families is essential
• Capacity to work on-site and actively engage in outdoor/nature-based programming

Why Join Second Nature

• A competitive salary and benefits package
• Access to professional development, career coaching, and reflective supervision
• A chance to lead in a values-driven environment that centers humanity, healing, and growth
• The opportunity to shape the future of neuro-affirming, child-first education - with a team that truly cares

To Apply

Please send your cover letter and resume to our Owner and CEO, Anastasia Machan, at