About Us

Our nature-based private school is located on one acre of land in the quaint township of Eden Mills, within walking access to trails, waterways, forests, farmland, and a beautiful park and playground. We offer a holistic and curriculum-informed educational journey for primary-aged children (psst . . . we're growing over time up to Grade 8!) that is rooted in experiential, hands-on, arts-integrated and land-based learning. At Walnut Forest Academy, we are reimagining education to nurture independent thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and whole human beings who feel deeply connected to the land and their community.

The Role

We are seeking a passionate, creative, adaptable and caring individual to join our team as a full-time Teaching Assistant for the 2025-2026 school year. This is a unique opportunity for an educator who is passionate about child-led learning, play-based pedagogy, multi-age groups, and nature connection. You'll be part of a dynamic team co-creating an enriching and joyful learning environment for children to be seen, supported, and inspired.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and facilitating daily curriculum-informed and inquiry-based learning experiences for children aged 4-8 years.

• Support children with routines, transitions, emotional regulation, communication and conflict resolution.

• Help maintain a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment.

• Observe and respond to children's interests and needs with sensitivity, respect, and curiosity.

• Set up and care for indoor and outdoor learning spaces (e.g., classrooms, forest play areas, mud kitchen).

• Communicate respectfully and effectively with students, families, volunteers and colleagues.

• Attend staff meetings, school events, and professional development training.

You Are Someone Who . . .

• Holds an Early Childhood Education diploma or equivalent experience.

• Loves being outdoors, thrives in all kinds of weather conditions, and has at least some knowledge of outdoor education.

• Has a nurturing and playful presence, and sees all children as capable, competent, resilient, and whole beings.

• Believes in emergent, inquiry-based learning and understands early childhood development.

• Has experience supporting and accommodating neurodivergent and anxious children and those with other exceptionalities.

• Works well as part of a collaborative, creative teaching team.

• Has up-to-date CPR/First Aid and Vulnerable Sector Check (or is willing to obtain both for the position).

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a heart-centred team and a growing nature-based education movement where creativity, curiosity, connection, and community keep our school rooted and flourishing.

• Experience the magic of teaching outside two-thirds of the day on our one-acre property and the land of beautiful Eden Mills.

• Opportunities for mentorship, professional learning, and growth.

• Work in a supportive, reflective environment where your voice and insights matter and a work-life balance is valued.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief letter of interest outlining why you would be a good fit for this role to: [email protected]

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.