Narnia Head

This position description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being
performed by people in this category. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all
responsibilities, duties and skills required of people in these positions.

Work Team:
Program
Reports To:
Program Lead, Youth Program Coordinator, Program Manager
Position Classification:
Volunteer
Length of Service:
3-4 Months

POSTION SUMMARY

This position is open May-September. The Narnia Head supervises, plans, and leads programs for guests aged between 4- and 11-years old Monday-Thursday 9 AM – 12 PM. The Narnia Head is responsible for implementing summer programs that inspire fun and creativity while supporting children’s physical, mental, and social development. The head should be flexible, creative, responsible, patient, and collaborative.

MAJOR FUNCTIONS

(principal duties and responsibilities; such as categories supported, staff size, volume managed, etc)

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

  • Assists the Youth Program Coordinator in developing a curriculum for guests aged 4-11 years old that has clearly defined learning objectives and provides age-appropriate opportunities for fun.
  • Trains and guides Narnia Assistants to implement the summer program. Supervises assistants in their day-to-day interaction with children and parents.
  • Creates a weekly schedule of activities for Narnia classes; works with other program areas to foster all-age spaces to facilitate child participation in the broader community.
  • Collaborates with Art Studio Technicians, Ceramic Studio Technician, Naturalist, Pool Hall Head, Pastor, and Education Lead to develop child- friendly programs across the Village. Leverages talents and interests of Villagers to enrich children’s programming.
  • Stewards Narnia classrooms and materials by maintaining safety and organization.
  • Fosters a safe and welcoming environment for all children to explore and express themselves by establishing community guidelines among cohorts.
  • Hosts a weekly Narnia open house on Sunday to meet kids and parents.
  • Responds appropriately and constructively to behavioral issues. Reports escalating or severe behavioral issues to parents and superiors.
  • Updates Narnia HoldenStack and Z:Drive files.
  • Responds to emails and attends weekly 1:1 with Youth Program Coordinator.
  • Attends weekly Program team meetings.
  • Assists in other aspects of the Program team’s work and other departments at the discretion of the Program Lead.
  • Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIREMENTS

(position specifications; such as knowledge/education, skills, problem solving/decision making, risk/bottom line results, management responsibility – people and functions)

Specific knowledge and skills include but are not limited to the following:

  • Previous experience working with pre-school- and elementary-aged children; background or formal education relating to Education or Child Development preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and lead lesson and activities for children.
  • Demonstrated ability to build relationships with children in a short period of time.
  • Demonstrated organizational and planning skills.
  • First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain before the start of position’s term).
  • Child Safety Training (or willingness to obtain before the start of position’s term).
  • Water Safety Instructor certification (or willingness to obtain before the start of position’s term).
  • Youth Mental Health First Aid certification (preferred).
  • Strong awareness of safety and liability; ability to respond to emergencies.
  • Patience and ability to address behavioral problems. Ability to productively discuss issues surrounding race, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, and ability.
  • Ability to work independently and in a collaborative setting.
  • Strong professional communication skills.
  • Creativity, problem solving, flexibility, and decision-making abilities.
  • Ability to see the “big picture” and be proactive.

COMMUNITY EXPECTATIONS

(particular knowledge/skills related to client and/or agency needs)

  • Has enthusiasm for, and ability to work in, a remote wilderness setting.
  • Commits to work in ways that support and fulfill Holden Village’s Mission, Vision, and Values and commits to the terms of the Community of Practice Agreement.
  • Extends genuine hospitality to all Villagers and guests; Helps new staff and volunteers integrate into the community.
  • Upholds and works to further Holden Village values of diversity, equality, respect, sustainability, and spirituality as articulated in the Strategic Plan. .
  • Undertakes Work of the Village including dish team, garbology, and wood chaining.
  • Abides by Holden Village’s Community Health Protocols and Practices.
  • Commits to staying up-do date on all required vaccinations, including COVID-19.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

As a Summer Seasonal Head, you are eligible for the following benefits:

  • $350/month stipend
  • Food (three meals/day)
  • Housing & utilities
  • Free parking at Fields Point
  • Boat tickets commensurate with length of commitment
  • Out days commensurate with length of commitment
  • Friends & family days commensurate with length of commitment
  • Access to amazing hiking opportunities, community events, teaching sessions, art studios and other educational opportunities!

Education

Holden Village is a community where your questions are valued and encouraged. Most programs led by visiting teaching faculty occur during the summer months. However, Holden also invites faculty to teach sessions for special events and retreats throughout the rest of the year.
Check out a list of the 2024 Summer Faculty.