SJK has an exciting opportunity for a full-time IB PYP Classroom Teacher to join our team!

SJK is seeking a highly motivated and committed teacher for an IB Primary Years Programme classroom position. The successful candidate will be an enthusiastic and innovative teacher who appreciates working in a collaborative environment and is dedicated to the highest standards of teaching and learning.

About St. John’s-Kilmarnock School (SJK)

SJK is the leading co-educational independent school in the Waterloo Region of Ontario. The School, founded in 1972, is located on a beautiful 36-acre natural campus, offering enriched educational programming for day students from JK-Grade 12 and international boarding students from Grades 9-12 through our accredited International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme. The School’s co-ed Boarding Residence is located in close proximity to the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University.

SJK offers a world of learning where we embrace innovation, diversity and internationalism. We have dedicated and inspirational educators, attentive to the needs of individual students and their families. Our expectations are high; students are encouraged to find balance through academics, sports, arts, service and leadership. As the only accredited IB World Continuum School in Southwestern Ontario, our students love learning and graduate as confident, well-rounded individuals, fully prepared for post-secondary education and life beyond. Our graduates take their passions to the world as leaders and global citizens.

As a community, we believe in the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice. We strive to be a place where every student, faculty and staff member, parent, and alumnus feels welcome and valued. We achieve this by living our core values and by appreciating that our learning community is enhanced by human differences. We value the unique experiences that each individual brings to our community and the myriads of perspectives that our diversity provides. We also recognize that it is our common humanity that binds us together as a community. We welcome applications from individuals who feel they could contribute positively to our diverse community.

Position Summary:

The IB PYP ClassroomTeacher plans and delivers inquiry-based learning experiences aligned with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme and grade-level expectations. The role fosters an inclusive, student-centred classroom environment that supports academic achievement and student well-being through differentiated instruction, assessment, and pastoral care. The PYP Teacher collaborates with colleagues and families to support student success and contributes actively to the broader life of the school community.

Specific Accountabilities:

• Plans and delivers learning experiences aligned with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), including inquiry-based learning, transdisciplinary planning, conceptual understanding, student agency, and the development of Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills.
• Designs and implements units of inquiry and related learning experiences aligned with the Programme of Inquiry (POI) and grade-level expectations.
• Establishes clear learning goals and success criteria; designs learning that promotes deep understanding, transfer, and disciplinary skill development.
• Creates a positive, inclusive classroom culture grounded in respect, belonging, and high expectations for all learners.
• Uses a variety of instructional strategies and learning structures to promote engagement, collaboration, independence, and academic growth.
• Uses assessment for/as/of learning practices to monitor progress, provide timely feedback, and adjust instruction.
• Documents learning authentically and consistently using PYP-aligned approaches (evidence of learning, learning stories, portfolios where applicable, student reflection).
• Maintains accurate and current records of student progress and achievement, consistent with divisional procedures.
• Communicates student progress professionally through reporting, conferences, and parent/guardian communications, in alignment with school expectations.
• Designs learning experiences that differentiate content, process, product, and environment to meet diverse learner needs.
• Implements accommodations and learning supports as required (e.g., learning plans, targeted strategies, assistive technology), in partnership with Learning Support and Student Services.
• Uses universal design and inclusive practices to reduce barriers, promote accessibility, and support student confidence and independence.
• Responds proactively to student learning needs by monitoring progress and coordinating timely interventions and supports.
• Provides professional, caring, and student-centred pastoral support to all students in assigned classes, contributing to a safe and supportive learning environment.
• Establishes strong, respectful relationships with students and families and supports students’ social-emotional growth, self-regulation, and belonging.
• Monitors student engagement, behaviour, and well-being; identifies concerns early and communicates appropriately with families and the divisional team.
• Upholds school expectations related to respectful conduct, positive behaviour, and community standards, modelling professionalism and care.
• Collaborates consistently with grade-level colleagues, specialists, and Learning Support to strengthen programme coherence, student experience, and shared expectations for teaching, learning, and assessment.
• Shares resources, strategies, and professional expertise to strengthen collective teacher efficacy.
• Engages in ongoing professional learning to strengthen practice, including participation in divisional PD, grade-level learning, and school-wide learning priorities.
• Contributes actively to the wider life of the school through supervision, events, and community responsibilities consistent with the life of an independent school.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A Bachelor of Education Degree
• Primary and/or Junior Divisional Qualifications
• An Ontario College of Teachers Certificate, or eligibility for teacher certification in Ontario
• OCT Membership in good standing
• Experience leading a co-curricular activity or coaching a sport is an asset
• Experience teaching the International Baccalaureate’s Primary Years Programme is an asset

Competencies:

• A positive, enthusiastic, and encouraging approach to learning and all aspects of school life

• Collaborative and solution-focused, with a passion for teaching
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and organizational skills
• A proven ability to build a caring rapport with students
• Effective communication with students, parents, and colleagues
• An ability to instruct using a range of differentiated teaching strategies and technology
• A dynamic, dedicated team player with a strong work ethic
• Capacity to contribute to SJK’s Co-Curricular and/or Athletics Program
• Willingness to learn and a commitment to personal growth and development

To Apply:

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to forward by email a letter of application and a résumé to https://tealandco.com/careers by May 31st, 2026.

SJK is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including participation in the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan if eligible and opportunities for professional development in a vibrant, collegial work environment. Please be aware that the successful candidate must submit a vulnerable sector check.

The salary range for this position is aligned with our current compensation band and ranges from $65,701 to $117,446 annually. This is a full-time permanent position with a start date of September 1^st, 2026.

SJK does not utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the screening, assessment, or selection of applicants.