Field Trip Guides

Purpose:
Field Trip Guides facilitate discovery for elementary-aged students during hands-on, activity-based field trips at VanDusen Botanical Garden.

Responsibilities:
- Lead 90-minute environmental education programs in the garden for diverse groups of students
- Facilitate a safe, fun, and high-quality learning experience for students, teachers, and chaperones
- Conduct programs in accordance with stated educational objectives in content and style
- Maintain regular online communication with Youth Programs Manager

The VBGA is committed to equity and diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including people of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression; Indigenous peoples; visible minorities and racialized people; and people with disabilities.

Training and Orientation:
- Role specific training in group management, interpretation skills, program content and teaching methodology will take place before each season.
- For Spring 2023, training sessions will take place in early March (date and time TBD).
- New volunteers must also complete the VBGA General Orientation (Online) and Indigenous Knowledge 101 (Online)
- There will also be ample time to shadow experienced leaders and co-teach before taking out groups independently. Shadowing dates will be chosen during training.

Time Commitment:
- One shift per week:
- We are currently recruiting for both morning (9:30am-12:00pm) and afternoon (12:00pm-2:30pm) shifts Tuesday through Friday.
- Programs run on weekdays during the school year
- A minimum of one year commitment

Supervisory Relationships/liaison: Candidate will be supervised by and liaise with the Youth Programs Manager.

Authority/Decision Making: Must be comfortable making decisions and problem solving with minimal supervision.

Skills, Attitudes, Knowledge Required:
- A love of nature and respect for the environment, with knowledge of ecology or gardening preferred
- Previous experience working with children ages 4-12 is desirable
- Confident and reliable communicator with children, volunteer team, and staff
- Patient, positive, flexible, fun-loving, and willing to regularly reflect upon personal performance and skill development
- Interested in ongoing training and education, both as conducted by the VBGA and independently
- Comfortable standing, walking, and kneeling throughout the shift
- Must pass a criminal record background check (free for volunteers)
- The VBGA requires that all employees and active volunteers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Volunteers must provide proof of being vaccinated prior to starting their first shift.

- An opportunity to inspire and educate children
- Enhance teaching and leadership skills
- Opportunity to work with educational professionals in a well-respected non-profit
- Contribute your time and talents in an impactful way for a worthwhile cause
- Reference letter

Becky Tinsley btinsley@vandusen.org