At Merrohawke, we are dedicated to fostering a deep connection between children, nature, and community. Inspired by the principles and practices of Waldorf education, our programs emphasize hands-on, experiential learning that integrates nature-based practices, creativity, and holistic child development
Together our teaching teams create time and space for youth to grow strong by nature in a way that honors their age and developmental stage. We do so in all weather, in all habitats, in all seasons. We are outdoors in rain, snow, sun, fog, winter, summer, fall, and spring as we explore rivers, oceans, salt marsh, sandy beaches, mudflats, coastal ocean waters, forests, vernal pools, broad green lawns, and meadows. We care deeply about protecting the sacred childhood years, and in this way, guide experiential learning in nature that inspires empathy, resilience, grit, and a deep connection to nature.
We always welcome interest, as our needs vary by season. You may apply below, and then send a resume and letter of interest to us.
Merrohawke Nature School is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Native Americans, Indigenous peoples, people of color, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, veterans, and those from other underrepresented communities. We are an equal-opportunity employer dedicated to creating a workplace that values and respects the unique perspectives each individual brings to our team.
At Merrohawke, we offer our staff:
- A supportive, community-driven work environment in a beautiful forest campus on the northeast coast of Mass.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development in nature-based learning and Waldorf education.
- The chance to make a meaningful impact by connecting children to nature and fostering their holistic growth.
- Full time staff are eligible for health and dental benefits.
- All staff receive an annual clothing allowance to support their comfort in working outside in all seasons.
These initial job descriptions are intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with it.
We would like to grow our teaching team for the spring semester, which begins at the end of January. We will begin hiring teachers for Summer 2025 in later winter and welcome your interest.
Forest Kindergarten teachers work together to provide nature-based, 100% outdoor early childhood education to young children in a joyful, warm and meaningful way. This requires active participation and understanding of Merrohawke’s nature-based, Waldorf early childhood curriculum to meet the children’s needs.
Through an authentic passion both for the outdoors and children, our teachers guide learning in nature, serve as positive role models, ensure the safety of all participants, support the physical and emotional needs of youth through the day, help set up and maintain equipment used in programming, and actively and positively contribute to daily planning and debriefing meetings.
We look for caring, compassionate, enthusiastic people who respect children with love and reverence, are deeply connected to nature, and wish to inspire and nurture the same in others.
Minimum Qualifications
- Mass. EEC Teacher or higher certification, or willingness to work towards this qualification
- Training in Waldorf early childhood education, handwork, nature-based learning, or environmental education
- Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
- Demonstrated comfort in working outdoors in all seasons
Desired Qualifications
- Experience teaching in an outdoor, nature-based learning environment
- Commitment to joyful, hard work, and a positive attitude
- Excellent communication skills
- Commitment to storytelling, singing, playing musical instruments or the arts
- Certified or willingness to become certified in Wilderness First Aid & CPR
Hours, Salary & Schedule
Part-time schedule is negotiable and pays $21/hour. Forest Kindergarten runs Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Please complete the online application and then send an email with a cover letter and resume to explore@merrohawke.org.
We are looking for a passionate and knowledgeable teacher to assist with leading outdoor, nature-based learning experiences for elementary and middle school children. The ideal candidate will have a background in teaching in an outdoor setting and experience and/or appreciation for the principles and practices of Waldorf education. This instructor will play a key role in helping to integrate nature-based learning within the child development philosophy of Waldorf education and best practices in outdoor, nature-based learning.
Responsibilities:
- Assist with leading and designing nature-immersive outdoor lessons that align with the principles and practices of Waldorf education.
- Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging outdoor learning environment.
- Offer nature-based storytelling, songs, and experiences to deepen children’s connection with the land.
- Foster environmental stewardship, respect for all living things, and sustainable practices.
- Provide mentorship and guidance, encouraging children’s creativity, curiosity, and independence in nature.
- Ensure all safety protocols and guidelines are followed during outdoor activities.
Desired Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Education, Environmental Studies, or a related field.
- Experience in teaching or practicing practical arts, such as wood working, weaving, knitting, sewing, etc.
- Familiarity with Waldorf educational principles or willingness to learn and integrate them into teaching.
- Passion for nature, outdoor education, and fostering a sense of wonder in children.
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and adapt lessons to meet the needs of diverse learners.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with children, parents, and fellow staff members.
- Commitment to continued personal growth through reflection, study, and attendance at workshops and trainings
- Certifications in Wilderness First Aid and CPR.
Hours, Salary & Schedule
Schedule is negotiable. This position pays $21-$24/hour based on experience. Merrohawke programs run year-round, with breaks in January, June and August.
Please complete the online application and then send an email with a cover letter and resume to explore@merrohawke.org.