Inclusive Practice and Pedagogical Leader (IPPL) (Cambridge)

Inclusive Practice and Pedagogical Leader (IPPL)( RECE) YWCA Cambridge is hiring a full-time Inclusive Practice and Pedagogical Leader to join the leadership team at our new licensed child care centre opening in Southeast Galt. We are a community‑based non‑profit advancing equity for Women, Children, and Gender Diverse Individuals through emergency shelter, licensed child care, and community programs. About the role The Inclusive Practice and Pedagogical Leader (IPPL) provides the strategies, resources, and professional learning that make full participation possible for every child, including those with special needs or behavioural challenges. Working closely with the Behaviour and Inclusion Supervisor, the IPPL mentors educators, advances Reggio Emilia informed pedagogy across the centre, and partners with families and external agencies to build coordinated plans of support. This is a hands‑on role grounded in coaching, modelling, and continuous improvement. Position details Location: New site, Southeast Galt 605 Wesley Blvd, Cambridge, ON N1R 5S2 Status: Full time, permanent Hours: 37.5 hours/week (7.5 hours/day), late/closing shift; flexibility to work varied hours to support centre needs Start date: August 4, 2026 Rate: $27.86 – $36.50/hour, based on experience What you'll do Inclusion & behaviour support Identify and implement inclusion strategies and resources for children with special needs or behavioural challenges Guide educators in creating environments that respect different cultures, abilities, and family backgrounds Use proactive approaches to prevent or resolve challenges related to inclusion and behaviour Provide hands‑on, in‑classroom support to educators and volunteers Pedagogical leadership Champion the Reggio Emilia philosophy across centre programming Support curriculum implementation and adapt programming to meet diverse developmental needs Promote child‑centred learning that follows children's interests, strengths, and developmental needs Model best practices through effective interactions with children and strong teaching strategies Mentorship & professional development Coach educators through observation, documentation, and reflective conversations about their practice Develop and deliver ongoing professional development on inclusion and behaviour management including onboarding for new staff Work closely with Supervisors to support front‑line educators Family, school, and community partnerships Participate in case conferences and multidisciplinary meetings with families, schools, and support agencies Build relationships that bring family and community perspectives into the learning environment Collaborate with external agencies and professionals to develop coordinated plans of support Documentation & compliance Complete and maintain participant profiles with strict attention to confidentiality and secure file storage Prepare clear, accurate reports outlining individual child and program goals, strategies, and supports Support new registration application reviews Ensure health, safety, and well‑being in accordance with agency and regulatory standards Provide in‑centre support to seasonal summer camp programs and staff Education & experience Undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Psychology, or a related field Minimum 2 years' experience working directly with children with special needs or behavioural challenges in a licensed child care or educational setting Strong working knowledge of the Reggio Emilia philosophy and the ability to implement it across age groups Certifications & requirements Standard First Aid + CPR Level C Valid Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check Valid driver's licence and access to a reliable vehicle Non‑Violent Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) certification – considered an asset Skills & attributes Demonstrated ability to coach, mentor, and empower educators Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication Excellent time management and organisational skills Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively in dynamic environments Sensitivity to diverse family and community needs Commitment to continuous learning and inclusive, anti‑oppressive practice Adaptable and responsive to changing program needs Approachable, respectful, and aligned with YWCA Cambridge's mission and values Why join us Specialized role with meaningful, system‑level impact on inclusion and pedagogy Collaborative leadership team and close partnership with the Behaviour and Inclusion Supervisor A workplace committed to equity, inclusion, and anti‑oppression Opportunities for ongoing professional development How to apply Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining the skills you'd bring to this role. Application deadline: May 22, 2026 We do not use AI technology to assist in the screening and selection process. YWCA Cambridge is committed to building a diverse team and strongly encourages applications from Indigenous, Black, racialized, 2SLGBTQ+, and disabled candidates, and from people with lived experience relevant to our mission. Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process, Please let us know what you need. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Benefits Dental care Extended health care Life insurance On‑site parking Paid time off Pay: $27.86-$36.50 per hour Education: DCS / DEC (preferred) Work Location: In person #J-18808-Ljbffr YWCA Cambridge