Exciting Opportunity Awaits at Ocean Mind - Join Our Team of Surf Therapy Facilitators and help us transform young people's lives!

WHO WE ARE

Imagine being part of a non-profit community organisation that offers therapeutic surf programs to young people aged 8 - 18 in the Greater Geelong area. At Ocean Mind, we're dedicated to positively impacting the lives of those experiencing mental health challenges, social isolation and disabilities. Our evidence-based approach isn’t just about catching waves—it’s about building confidence, resilience skills, and a sense of belonging to the community.

about the role

With our programs running on the Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast, we're seeking enthusiastic Program Facilitators/Surf Instructors to join our growing team. As a facilitator, you'll have the exhilarating role of delivering surf therapy programs, teaching young people to surf, and implementing the transformative Ocean Mind surf therapy model.

Dive into the world of surf therapy and get ready to support a diverse range of young people. Our programs focus on developing personal and social skills, building positive relationships and encouraging young people to embrace challenges. All of this while teaching them how to surf in a welcoming and supportive environment, increasing awareness of beach and water safety and fostering their connection to the ocean.

Embrace our culture of innovation, wellbeing, and creativity as you make a difference in the lives of these extraordinary youth.

Bring your passion for the ocean and surfing, along with experience in working with young people and your willingness to obtain surf coach qualifications - we'd love to have you on board! While being a pro surfer isn't required, a beginner's level of surfing experience is desired.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Location: Ocean Grove, Anglesea, and Torquay

Employment Type: Casual (minimum commitment of 8 - 10 hours per week)

Pay Rate: $44 per hour

Shift Options: We offer flexible shifts, spanning 3 to 6 hours on weekends, school holidays, and after-school hours. There are also some shifts during weekdays but you would need to be available for weekend shifts to be successful in this role.

Start Date & Training: Role is due to commence in September 2024. A 2-day staff training will be held on Friday 6th and Saturday 7th September in Torquay. Successful candidates will be required to attend.

Don't miss this chance to ride the waves of change and empowerment with Ocean Mind. Apply now to embark on a fulfilling journey and be part of a fun, passionate and supportive team committed to transforming lives, on wave at a time!

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA

Essential Requirements

• Surf Coach Qualification or willingness to obtain. If you do not currently hold this qualification, it must be attained by the start of October.
  • Learn more about Surfing Victoria’s Foundation Surf Coaching course here.
  • Requirements to achieve this qualification include:
    • Certificate of completion of the Foundation Coaching Course
    • Current Community Surf Lifesaving Certificate Qualification or equivalent
    • Current First Aid qualification (HLTAID003)
    • Current CPR qualification (HLTAID001)
    • Current Working With Children Check
    • Completion of the Play by the Rules – Child Protection course
    • Current state association membership
    • Completion of 20 hours of practical experience (can be completed at Ocean Mind or another Surfing Australia affiliated surf school)

• Qualification or working towards a qualification in Youth Work, Social Work, Disability work, Community Development, Occupational Therapy, Outdoor Education, Psychology or other related allied health field.
• Current Working with Children’s Check (Employee) and Police Check (valid within the past 12 months) or willingness to obtain.
• A good practical understanding of, and prior experience in, working with children and young people, particularly those with additional needs.
• A good understanding of the legal issues surrounding work with children and young people, particularly regarding duty of care, confidentiality and child protection.
• A good understanding of issues around child and youth mental health, disabilities and stigma.
• Good standard of IT literacy and office administration skills.
• Ability to work on own initiative, to deadlines, and in a flexible, proactive way.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Competence in reading ocean conditions and ability to identify safety risks or hazards in the beach/ocean environment.
• A full Australian driving licence and access to a reliable vehicle.

Desirable Requirements

• Educated to degree level (or equivalent) in any discipline related to working with young people.
• Qualifications or training in any of the following:
  • Youth mental health
  • Autism awareness
  • Mental health first aid
  • Trauma-informed practice
  • Child safety
  • Strengths-based approach
• Group facilitation experience, particularly related to nature- and/or adventure based programs or activities.
• Volunteer management experience.
• Beginner to intermediate level of surfing and a good knowledge of surfing and surf culture.

Our commitment to child safety

Ocean Mind is a child-safe organisation dedicated to the safety and welfare of our children. We enforce strict child safeguarding policies, conduct thorough background checks for staff and volunteers, and maintain a zero-tolerance approach towards any form of abuse or exploitation. Join us to empower young individuals through surf therapy in a secure and nurturing environment.

Our commitment to diversity & inclusion

At Ocean Mind, we are committed to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for all people. Ocean Mind is an equal-opportunity employer and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to join us in making a positive impact on the lives of young people.