Self Directed, Nature Based Learning

Self-Directed Education is a whole-life, agency and consent-based process. When young people are free to learn on their own terms, they learn everywhere and all the time — not only in places and at times set aside for “educational purposes.” Self-Directed Education facilitators reject the notion that young people need to learn a standard set of skills and subjects by a certain time. Successful facilitation requires, among other skills, a deep appreciation for informal, spontaneous, and emergent learning processes. A commitment to self directed learning is essential for those interested in becoming part of the White Ash Learning mentoring team. There are a number of ways to become involved, please read through this information and fill out the application below.

A full day program visit is a prerequisite for those interested in working in White Ash youth programs.

Guest Volunteers

We invite guest volunteers to offer a unique skill, activity, or experience. If you are interested in visiting as a guest, please propose specific offerings that you would like to facilitate. Your proposal will be shared with the mentoring team and participants.

Guest & Substitute Mentors

We regularly schedule guest mentors to visit the semester program and summer sessions. We also call on substitute mentors to fill in for one or more weeks when a mentor has a scheduled or unexpected absence. It is required to visit the program for a full day prior to being hired as a guest or substitute mentor and it is preferable that guest mentors have a current WFA or WFR.

Mentors in Training

The MIT program is for those interested in gaining experience, receiving training, building outdoor skills, and becoming familiar with Self Directed Education. It is designed to provide in the field mentoring, as well as support in developing the skills and experience to either become an mentor with White Ash Learning or work elsewhere in the field. This volunteer position is best suited for those who are motivated to engage in a learning process and utilize the support and resources offered. The MIT role may also be a good fit for those wishing to expand their skills and explore whether working in this field is of interest in the long-term.

The mentor in training role was a great entry level opportunity into the outdoor education field. I appreciated the ease into holding responsibility that it gave me, allowing me opportunities to take on greater responsibility only once I felt ready. It allowed me to get to know environment of White Ash before fully coming into a mentorship role with the programs, which I feel provided me with a stronger base of information and understanding when ultimately stepped into a full mentor role.

What we’re looking for

    • Passion for supporting self directed learning.

    • Experience with nature connection mentoring (8 Shields or alternative models).

    • Naturalist knowledge and wilderness skills.

    • Ability to independently lead crafts and diverse types of projects.

    • Working knowledge of English and familiarity with Spanish, French, ASL, or another language.

    • Current First Aid/CPR, WFA or WFR preferred.

    • Excellent communication skills.

    • Experience in conflict resolution with youth.

    • Strong desire for personal and professional growth.

    • Commitment to equity, regenerative culture and decolonization.

    • Active engagement in relationship with the more than human world.

 

Your Information

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References

I understand that if considered for a position, this information will be used to obtain a criminal record if one exists.
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Unless you have been continuously employed by a Maine school district the DOE requires that individuals be fingerprinted every five years.

As an EOE/AA employer, White Ash Learning Collective will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant’s race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry, age, sexual orientation, gender identification, genetic information, veteran or disability status, or any other factor prohibited by law.