Brief Description:

Locations: Various schools in Northern Canada - the volunteer will need to be present in person

Placement duration: Starting as soon as possible, with an end date of June 2024 (school year)

Language Requirements: English

Open to Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada only

The Volunteer’s Role
What impact could you have? Have a positive and lasting change in Indigenous communities!

As a Classroom Assistant, you will work in the classroom to provide your knowledge as an educator, share your experiences about the world, inspire students to learn and pursue further education, and encourage students to believe they can become who they aspire to be!

You will help facilitate the e-learning program for students in grades 4-12 where you will connect your classroom to a network of other classrooms in various schools in Northern Canada also facilitated by other Classroom Assistants like yourself. You will work directly with assigned teachers (including the host teacher), participate in activities both inside and outside the classroom, and be engaged with the community through intercultural events throughout the school year.

If you are a self-motivated individual with an interest in teaching, learning about indigenous cultures, and being involved with the community, then this is the placement for you!

As a volunteer, you will:

- Work in the school as a tutor (Math and/or Science is an asset)

- Assist the students during lessons, under the direct supervision of the headteacher

- Monitor the progress of the students and report back to the classroom teachers

- Accompany and supervise students during activities in the school gym, labs, libraries, resource centers and on field trips

- Support fundraising events at the school and community level

- Help in other capacities (including computer instruction, art, music, sports) depending on your skills, training, and hobbies as well as the needs of the school

Essential Requirements:

- Completed university degree or college diploma

- Ability to pass the vulnerable sector police check

- Must be currently located in Canada

Essential Background:

- Experience teaching or presenting material to children and youth, particularly students with special needs.

- Knowledge of Indigenous Peoples in Canada (experience working with Indigenous Peoples is an asset)

- Strong understanding of working with High School age students

- Display an understanding of different learning styles

- Be culturally sensitive and have an openness to learning about different cultures

- Computer literate and knowledgeable of technology

- Previous volunteer or work experience either in Canada or in other countries

- Excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills

What’s in it for YOU? A life-changing experience!

Each volunteer placement is a unique experience. Read about the impact of previous volunteers in Northern Canada:

(Hay River), (Fort Good Hope and Inuvik), (Paulatuk), (Fort Resolution), (Fort Providence), (Fort Resolution), (Fort McPherson), (Fort McPherson), (Tuktoyaktuk)

About Cuso International and Participating Schools
Cuso International

Cuso International is an international cooperation and development organization that works to create economic and social opportunities for marginalized groups. Together with our partners, we are focused on efforts to advance gender equality and social inclusion, improve economic resilience, and deliver progress on climate action. We believe that by sharing skills, we can build better futures. Founded in 1961, Cuso International works in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Canada.

Launched in 2017 the Canadian Program is committed to helping Indigenous communities in the Northwest Territories address low graduation rates, improve education outcomes, and promote truth and reconciliation with non-indigenous citizens.

Beaufort Delta Education Council

The most northerly school board in the Northwest Territories with all eight communities and nine schools located north of the Arctic Circle, the BDEC serves 1382 students in the region and is responsible for about 200 administrators, teachers and support staff. Cuso International is currently working with the schools in Aklavik, Inuvik, Fort McPherson, Paulatuk and Tuktoyaktuk.

South Slave Divisional Education Council

Responsible for the education of approximately 1300 (JK-12) students in the South Slave region, the Council's mission is to strive to prepare students to create their futures. Their primary responsibility is to provide for the educational needs of the students of the South Slave region. Cuso International is currently working with the schools in Fort Resolution and Hay River.

Benefits
Terms and Conditions
Cuso International terms and conditions allow you to lead a modest and healthy lifestyle while being effective in your placement. This support package will cover basic living expenses for one volunteer and is not intended to cover home-based expenses (ex. loans, support payments, etc.) or luxury items such as imported items in placement or international personal travel.

Support Package

Modest monthly living allowance
Accommodation while in placement
Airfare to and from placement
Online pre-departure training
Emergency Medical Insurance
On-the-ground support through our Cuso International office
Access to Employee Assistance Program while in placement and upon return

Other Requirements

Please note that if you are shortlisted for the placement, you will be required to:

Provide two Professional References and one Personal Reference
Due to the COVID-19 situation, be double vaccinated in accordance with the
We seek individuals who share our values and are dedicated to supporting marginalized groups, including those from the LGBTQIA+ communities

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