ICAP at Columbia University (ICAP) is an international non-governmental organization that aims to ensure the wellness of families and communities by strengthening health systems around the world.

ICAP in Sierra Leone is hiring a Teaching Garden Coordinator to develop and implement a school garden for an integrated early childhood development project in Sierra Leone, the SHINE project. The project aims to improve the well-being and development of children aged 2 to 6 by addressing the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of children and their families. Reporting to the Project Coordinator, the Teaching Garden Coordinator will upkeep and maintain the school garden and provide learning activities in the garden and classroom that support the regular school curriculum and standards to maximize education potential. S/He will also coordinate community access to the garden, its resources, and special events or activities associated with the garden.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Overall responsible for the preparation, maintenance, and management of the school garden, ensuring the garden infrastructure is in good condition and that the plants are well-tended throughout the growing season.
• Build involvement in and commitment to the school garden within the school community, including teachers, students, parents, and community volunteers
• Oversee and coordinate students’ hands-on experiences in gardening
• Lead garden classes incorporating environmental science and nutrition education as they relate to the garden
• Establish a garden time schedule with curriculum coordinators and teachers
• Evaluate the school garden program, activities, and materials in terms of adequacy in meeting school curricular requirements and student, faculty, and community needs
• Assist classroom teachers in providing lessons to students that emphasize healthy nutrition and lifestyles
• Provide group instruction in garden development and sustainability, and healthy nutrition as appropriate for various age groupings
• Establish and maintain standards of behavior for the garden area that support school codes of student conduct while also maintaining a warm and welcoming environment
• Encourage and motivate students to think independently and begin to take personal responsibility for their health, wellness, and nutrition as appropriate for their age and maturity
• Encourage students to bring nutrition education home to inspire their parents.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE, SKILLS & PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Diploma in Agriculture or environmental science
• Knowledge and experience in small-scale organic food production or home gardening
• At least 2-3 years of facilitation or teaching experience with children aged 2-10
• Demonstrated ability to work with diverse populations, including youth and adults
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including public speaking skills
• Ability to work independently and be flexible