Supportive Learning Assistant

As a grassroots organization, Saint James Music Academy (SJMA) is the product of people and communities coming together, working together, and creating together. Based in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, SJMA is a full orchestral and choir-based AFTER-SCHOOL MUSIC PROGRAM, offering high-quality music education at no cost to children whose families would otherwise not be able to afford music lessons.

Supportive Learning Assistants at SJMA play a key role in helping children to learn and grow through the joys and challenges of music education.

If you are full of positive energy and enthusiasm, and would love to be a part of an organization with a narrow but beautiful focus (kids and music), that is filled with moments of excitement and inspiration, please apply!

Qualifications:

- Proven ability to work with children and youth, especially from grades 1 to 5, who require additional support due to learning differences and/or behavioural challenges related to trauma, FAS, ADHD, Autism, etc.
- Professional experience / relevant education in educational assistance or a related field
- Excellent communication, teamwork, interpersonal, and de-escalation skills
- Music literacy and skills are an asset
- Successful applicants must submit to a police criminal record check.

Duties include but are not limited to:

- Assist students to participate in group music classes, providing individual attention and support
- Report to the Supportive Learning Coordinator on student behaviour and progress,



attending meetings as needed
- Assist with classroom management
- Motivate and encourage students

You are:

- A person with a big heart for children and youth, who is compassionate and friendly
- Capable of being kindly assertive with children and of setting healthy boundaries
- Able to be flexible in a highly dynamic workplace
- Excited about the prospect of becoming part of an awesome community-based music program for kids

Location: Saint James Music Academy, 303 Cordova Street, Vancouver

Wage: $28/hour

Hours: 2.5 - 3 hours per day from 3:15pm (or 3:45pm) to 6:15pm, plus periodic meetings. Hours increase during our Christmas and Spring concerts and other special events.

Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays

Work Dates: September 9th 2025 to June 2026*, approximately following the academic school year

*(Excluding statutory holidays, Hallowe’en, Christmas holidays, Spring Break, and on District-Wide Vancouver Vancouver School Board Pro-D days, when SJMA is closed)

HOW TO APPLY:

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Please email RESUME AND COVER LETTER with the SUBJECT “Supportive Learning Assistant Application”

ATTENTION OF Marlaina Vincent

Please note: Only applicants currently residing in Greater Vancouver with a current Canadian work permit will be considered.

Job Type: Part time

Pay: $28.00 per hour

Language

- English (required)

Work Location: In person

📌 Education Assistant - Special Needs (Vancouver)
🏢 Saint James Music Academy
📍 Vancouver