Preschool ʔayʔaʔjuθəm Immersion Teacher

The Tla’amin Nation (TN) is a modern, forward thinking, self-governing nation located on the beautiful upper Sunshine Coast (qathet Region).

Position Summary

Job Type:                    Permanent, Part-time – 24 hours per week

Hours of Work:           8:00am-4:00pm, 3 days per week

Reporting to:              Manager of Early Childhood Education

Department:               Education

The Preschool ʔayʔaʔjuθəm Immersion Teacher provides high-quality early learning experiences through an immersive ʔayʔaʔjuθəm language environment for preschool-aged children. They are both an educator and a language leader, contributing to the intergenerational revitalization of ʔayʔaʔjuθəm by nurturing the next generation of speakers through meaningful, everyday experiences. The Preschool ʔayʔaʔjuθəm Immersion Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support children's language development while fostering a strong sense of identity, belonging, and connection to Tla'amin culture, values, and community.

Key Responsibilities

Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with Tla’amin laws, regulations, policies, practices and procedures as directed by the Manager of Early Childhood Education. Maintains confidentiality as required pertaining to Citizens, clients, employees and general matters of the Nation.

Language Immersion

• Create and maintain an ʔayʔaʔjuθəm-rich learning environment where language is used naturally throughout the day.
• Integrate ʔayʔaʔjuθəm into daily routines, transitions, conversations, songs, storytelling, games, outdoor learning, and play experiences.
• Model confident and consistent use of ʔayʔaʔjuθəm for children, families, and colleagues.
• Support children's receptive and expressive language development through engaging and meaningful interactions.
• Collaborate with language speakers, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers to strengthen authentic language learning opportunities.

Curriculum & Teaching

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with the BC Early Learning Framework and Tla'amin values.
• Foster curiosity, creativity, problem-solving, communication, and social-emotional development through play-based learning.
• Create learning environments that are inclusive, welcoming, culturally responsive, and reflective of Tla'amin traditions.
• Establish and maintain a safe, inclusive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment.
• Incorporate land-based learning experiences that strengthen children's relationships with place, community, and culture.
• Observe, document, assess, and reflect upon children's learning to guide planning and communicate progress with families.

Relationships & Family Engagement

• Develop respectful, trusting relationships with children and families.
• Communicate regularly with families regarding children's learning, development, and language growth.
• Encourage family participation in language revitalization and cultural learning opportunities.
• Work collaboratively with Early Childhood Educators, support staff, and other education professionals.

Professional Practice

• Participate in reflective practice and continuous professional learning.
• Support the development of language resources, classroom materials, and culturally relevant curriculum.
• Maintain accurate documentation and records as required.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and community events.
• Collaborate with preschool educators to embed ʔayʔajuθəm throughout the preschool environment and support a consistent immersion approach.
• Ensure compliance with licensing regulations, organizational policies, and safe learning practices.

Qualifications

Training, Education, Experience

• Valid BC Teacher Certification.
• Demonstrated experience working in early childhood educational settings with children aged 3–5 years.
• Minimum 3 years experience working with čičuy.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Demonstrated confidence in speaking, reading/writing, understanding, and teaching ʔayʔaʔjuθəm.
• First Aid and CPR Certification Level B, or willingness to obtain.
• Successful Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of Indigenous approaches to education, language revitalization, and culturally grounded teaching.
• Knowledge of Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and learning, with a commitment to ongoing learning within a ɬaʔamɩn context. 
• Deep respect for ɬaʔamɩn culture, language, and community relationships.
• Strong grounding in reflective practice and inquiry-based learning
• Ability to create an engaging immersion environment where language is acquired naturally.
• Demonstrated ability to build respectful relationships with children, families, colleagues, Elders, and community members.
• Strong understanding of child development and play-based early learning practices.
• Strong classroom organization and planning skills.
• Ability to adapt teaching to meet diverse learning needs.
• Commitment to culturally safe, inclusive, and strengths-based practice.
• Passion for language revitalization and lifelong learning.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily based within the Tla’amin Immersion Program with regular outdoor and land-based learning experiences. Occasional evening or weekend participation in community cultural events, family engagement activities, or professional development may be required. This position requires frequent movement, outdoor activity, lifting of preschool equipment, and active participation in children’s play and daily routines.  

How to Apply

Please apply by uploading your resume and cover letter to: https://tlaaminfirst.bamboohr.com/careers/345 

Or

Drop-off/mail Attention: Human Resources Department, Tla’amin Nation, 4779 Klahanie Rd, qathet, BC, V8A 0C4 

This posting will be open until filled.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those shortlisted will be contacted.