Assistant Sea Guide
Program Overview
The Field School of Hvar is a family slow travel experience, inviting parents and children to find equilibrium and joy on Hvar, an island off the Adriatic coast of Croatia. Children ages four through seventeen develop academic and socio-emotional skills through immersion in the island’s nautical and artisanal heritage, participating in a full-time, drop-off enrichment program 35 hours per week, Monday through Friday. There is also a part-time “parent-and-me” program for toddlers, ages one through three. Our core values are stewardship, integrity, and gentleness.
Location: Hvar Island, Croatia (in-person)
Dates and Hours: The Assistant Guide role is a seasonal position. Assistant Guides work part-time and remotely in April, then come to island Hvar for a full-time, in-person engagement from May 2 through October 31 (6 months). The work week runs from Monday through Friday.
Assistant Guide Timeline:
April 7 - May 2: Curriculum RESEARCH. Part-time, remote.
May 5 - May 30: TRAIN and PREPARE. Full-time, in-person.
June 2 - October 31: IMPLEMENT. Full-time, in-person.
June 2 - August 29: summer sessions
1pm-2pm, faculty hour
2pm-9pm, teaching
September 1 - 5: no students, internal review and preparation. Full-time, in-person.
September 8 - October 31: fall session. Full-time, in-person.
9am-10am, faculty hour
10am-5pm, teaching
Reports to: Sea Guide
Job Summary
We are seeking a passionate and dedicated individual to join our vibrant learning community on Hvar Island, Croatia as the Assistant Guide for our Sea Track! The Assistant Sea Guide is responsible for leading a group of 7 children (either ages 7-9 OR ages 10-13 years) through the Sea Track. The Assistant Guide will implement the Sea curriculum - designed by the Sea Guide - to ensure that children engage in academically robust experiential learning.
An ideal candidate will be passionate about facilitating emergent learning and the authenticity of hands-on experiences. Additionally, experience leading youth water sports is highly desirable as this position requires much time spent on the water leading activities such as sailing, boating, and snorkeling. A certification in water safety training will be required. Training on the particularities of island Hvar and the School’s policies will be provided.
Key Responsibilities
Ensure the safety and well-being of 7 children in indoor and outdoor environments, primarily the sea.
Implement a high-quality place-based curriculum that ties to international learning standards and reflects the Field School of Hvar’s educational mission.
Guide children to articulate and uphold their own norms, use restorative justice strategies for managing conflict, and maintain clear and consistent communication on behavior management with colleagues and parents.
Work as a team with the Guides
Collaborate with fellow educators and staff, creating a wholesome, supportive, and positive community for families
Administer first aid and outdoor rescue should the need arise.
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, Outdoor Education, Environmental Education, Environmental Science, or a related field preferred.
Experience
Minimum of 3 years of experience working in education or outdoor youth recreation settings is highly preferred.
Skills
Ability to a robust interdisciplinary curriculum that is inspired by the Sea and provides experiential learning opportunities
Inquiry-based background or the ability to support children to find answers to their curiosities
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Professional water sports experience and water safety training are highly preferred
Preferred Qualifications
Backgrounds in place-based education, design-thinking, and nature-based educators are preferred.
Experience gardening and cooking with children is preferred.
Restorative Justice, Responsive Classroom, Conscious Discipline, and other social-emotional backgrounds are preferred
Work Environment
This position starts remotely on April 7th. The Field School of Hvar is based in the quaint, but vibrant village of Jelsa on Hvar Island, Croatia. The work environment may include exposure to varying weather conditions, such as sun, heat, wind, and occasional rain. The guide should be prepared for outdoor work in diverse conditions and have appropriate attire for both indoor and outdoor activities.
Physical Requirements
Generally strong mobility including the ability to swim long distances
Capability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and assist children with physical activities such as sailing, building, and swimming.
Salary and Benefits:
Total compensation of €12.50/hour or €1,000/month for part-time and €2,000/month for full-time work. During period on Hvar, this will include health insurance, which costs about €100 per month
Assistance in finding comfortable and affordable accommodations
One fresh, locally sourced meal per day when the program is in session
20% tuition discount for children
Life on a safe, family-oriented island with world-class nature and culture
All faculty from outside the EEA will be sponsored for work permits.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Field School of Hvar is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including but not limited to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.