Summer jobs, Student jobs

Summer Student Employment Opportunity: Building Skills, Supporting Community

Position: Community Garden & Food Assistant (Summer Student)
Type: age 30 & under / summer
Organization: Valley Community Learning Association
Location: Kentville, Nova Scotia

• Position Type: Temporary Summer Position
• Duration: Mid-June to Mid-August (9 weeks)
• Hours: 30 hours per week
• Wage: $18.50/hour
• Application Deadline: Rolling applications accepted until May 8th, 2026 or until the position is filled. Interviews in person or on-line.

Eligibility: This position is supported through a Canada Summer Jobs wage subsidy and is open to students who are returning to full-time studies in September 2026. Eligible candidates must be 18 to 30 years old at the start of employment, be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or have refugee protection status. Participants must have a valid Social Insurance Number and be legally entitled to work in Canada.

About VCLA

The Valley Community Learning Association (VCLA) is an adult learning organization based in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley. We embrace and support adults to learn, dream, and grow through education, community connection, and inclusive opportunities (vcla.ca).

Our work is rooted in the belief that learning happens everywhere—in classrooms, kitchens, gardens, and community spaces—and that everyone brings valuable knowledge and experience to share. We are committed to creating welcoming, respectful environments where diversity is celebrated and all individuals feel a sense of belonging.

Position Overview

This summer student position is a hands-on, outdoor role focused on supporting VCLA’s community gardens, outdoor spaces, and food programs. The successful candidate will play an important role in helping grow and tend the food that supports our daily meals and community initiatives, while also contributing to the upkeep and beautification of our grounds.

This is a physically active, outdoor position that takes place in a variety of weather conditions. It is well suited for someone who enjoys working outside, values teamwork, and is interested in sustainable food systems and community-based learning.

The student will also benefit from mentorship provided by an experienced, internationally experienced organic farming practitioner, offering guidance and hands-on learning in sustainable growing practices throughout the summer.

Key Responsibilities

Gardening, Food Production & Outdoor Space Care

• Support the planting, maintenance, and harvesting of fruit vegetables, and herbs using organic growing principles
• Water, weed, mulch, and care for garden beds and greenhouse spaces
• Assist with composting and soil health practices

• Help create welcoming, inclusive outdoor environments for learners and community members upkeep and beautification of VCLA’s outdoor spaces

Community & Learner Support

• Work alongside adult learners, volunteers, and community gardeners in a respectful and supportive way
• Help create a positive, inclusive atmosphere in shared outdoor spaces
• Participate in team activities that connect gardening, learning, and community engagement

Food Preservation & Kitchen Support

• Assist with harvesting and preparing produce for use in VCLA’s kitchen
• Support basic food preservation activities (e.g., washing, sorting, freezing, or simple preserving methods)
• Follow safe food handling practices

What We’re Looking For

• Interest in gardening, food systems, sustainability, or community work
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to perform physical tasks (lifting, bending, standing for extended periods)
• Positive attitude and ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Respect for diversity and commitment to creating inclusive spaces
• Reliability and willingness to learn

Previous experience in gardening or landscaping is an asset, but not required.

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in organic gardening and food production
• Mentorship from an experienced organic farming practitioner
• Exposure to community-based learning and inclusive program delivery
• Skills in teamwork, communication, and outdoor work
• Experience supporting food preparation and preservation processes
• The opportunity to contribute to meaningful community initiatives

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until May 8th, 2026, or until the position is filled.

Please submit:

• An up-to-date resume
• A cover letter outlining your interest in the position and the skills/experience you bring
• The names and phone numbers of two recent references

Send by email to:
judy.vcla@gmail.com

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