First Nations Knowledge Keeper

First Nations Knowledge Keeper

WILDE School Yukon
Location: 18 Metropolit Lane, Whitehorse, Yukon

Come join an incredible team of difference makers at WILDE School Yukon!

WILDE School Yukon is seeking a passionate and dedicated First Nations Knowledge Keeper to join our growing team. This role will support land-based learning at our outdoor campus in Whitehorse, Yukon, and play a valued role in the delivery of our new Experiential Field Trips program.

Experiential Field Trips provide immersive, hands-on, nature-based learning experiences for Kindergarten to Grade 7 classes. Rooted in experiential education, these programs connect students to the land through science, outdoor skills, and stewardship.

The First Nations Knowledge Keeper will lead and support these field trips by thoughtfully integrating First Nations Ways of Knowing, Doing, and Being throughout program activities. This position is an opportunity to inspire young learners, strengthen relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, and help foster respect for the land, culture, and one another.

Experiential Field Trips operate year-round in all seasons. The successful candidate will be comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including rain, snow, and cold temperatures. Programs take place on uneven terrain, in dense boreal forest, on trails, and in deep snow.

Key Responsibilities

• Share Indigenous knowledge, stories, values, and perspectives in age-appropriate and engaging ways.
• Integrate First Nations Ways of Knowing, Doing, and Being into outdoor educational experiences.
• Lead cultural learning activities that foster respect, curiosity, and understanding.
• Support students in developing meaningful relationships with the land.
• Teach traditional ecological knowledge and seasonal land-based practices where appropriate.
• Collaborate with educators to design culturally responsive outdoor learning experiences.
• Help create welcoming, inclusive, and culturally safe learning environments for all participants.
• Model respectful relationships with the land, community, and one another.
• Participate in planning meetings and program development.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of students during outdoor programming.
• Assist with outdoor program setup, equipment organization, and site stewardship.

Candidates considered for this position will possess the following:

• Strong knowledge of Yukon First Nations cultures, histories, traditions, and land-based practices.
• Experience sharing traditional knowledge with children, youth, or community members.
• A passion for working with children in outdoor environments.
• Excellent communication and storytelling skills.
• Ability to build respectful relationships with students, families, educators, and community partners.
• Confidence facilitating learning experiences outdoors in all four seasons.
• Physical ability to walk several kilometres daily over uneven terrain, including snow, mud, hills, and forest trails.
• A collaborative and team-oriented approach to program delivery.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to positively mentor children and youth.
• Sound judgment, adaptability, and the ability to respond calmly to changing situations.
• A commitment to cultural safety, reconciliation, and lifelong learning.
• Valid Standard First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Current Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check (or willingness to obtain).

Desirable Traits

We are looking for someone who:

• Demonstrates deep respect for the land and models responsible environmental stewardship.
• Is passionate about preserving and sharing Indigenous knowledge for future generations.
• Has a warm, welcoming, and encouraging presence with children and adults alike.
• Creates meaningful learning experiences through storytelling, observation, and hands-on activities.
• Builds strong relationships based on trust, kindness, humility, and respect.
• Is patient and able to meet children where they are in their learning journey.
• Values experiential, inquiry-based, and place-based education.
• Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a supportive and mission-driven team.
• Is dependable, organized, and able to work independently when required.
• Brings creativity and flexibility to adapting activities for different ages, abilities, and weather conditions.
• Appreciates the importance of fostering belonging, inclusion, and cultural understanding.
• Is comfortable speaking to groups of children, educators, and visiting adults.
• Leads by example through integrity, compassion, and professionalism.
• Has a positive attitude and a willingness to continually learn from Elders, Knowledge Keepers, colleagues, and community members.
• Believes that time spent learning on the land has the power to transform lives.

Why Join WILDE School Yukon?

At WILDE School Yukon, we believe children learn best through meaningful experiences in nature. Our team is passionate about inspiring curiosity, resilience, leadership, and stewardship through immersive outdoor education.

As part of our team, you will:

• Help shape an innovative and growing outdoor education program.
• Make a lasting impact on hundreds of Yukon students each year.
• Work alongside passionate educators and outdoor professionals.
• Spend your days outdoors in the beautiful boreal forest.
• Contribute to reconciliation through authentic land-based learning and cultural education.
• Join a supportive workplace committed to collaboration, respect, and continuous learning.

If you are passionate about sharing Indigenous knowledge, connecting young people to the land, and helping create transformative educational experiences, we would love to hear from you.