Creative Arts Instructor

Perley Health is a unique and innovative community that empowers Seniors and Veterans to live life to the fullest. Home to more than 600 Seniors and Veterans in long-term care and in independent apartments, Perley Health provides a growing number of clinical, therapeutic and recreational services to residents, tenants and people from across the region.

One of the largest and most progressive long-term care homes in Ontario, Perley Health is also a centre for research, education, and clinical innovation. Our Centre of Excellence in Frailty-Informed Care conducts and shares the practical research needed to improve care. Future caregivers come here to study and to acquire hands-on skills and experience.

Perley Health's values are brought to life each day by our over 800 employees. And more than 400 regular volunteers connect us closely with the community. Together, we improve the well-being of Canada's aging population.

We are embarking on a multi-year growth strategy, and are seeking an experienced:

Creative Arts Instructor

Part-Time

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

Under the direction and authorization of the Manager, Therapeutic Recreation & Creative Arts, the Creative Arts Instructor is responsible for providing instruction, guidance and assistance to participating senior residents in the health care environment.  The Creative Arts Instructor works with staff in the recreation and creative arts service program, to increase the residents' confidence, provide opportunities for socialization, provide cognitive stimulation, improve quality of life, and motivation within the framework of a supportive atmosphere. 

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Visual Artists maintain a high level of proficiency and skill in a number of arts areas, such as printmaking, woodworking, pottery, photography, textiles, and other visual art therapies
• Provide instruction to residents through activities that are responsive to their needs
• Assess individual interests and capabilities
• Design and adapt tools, therapies, programs and activities to meet resident's individual needs.  Work with physical environment, body position, accessibility to work surface, tools, lighting, noise issues, and adaptations to equipment
• Provide opportunities through residents' choice for personal growth in decision making, enhancement of social skills, stimulation and creativity
• Address information concerning residents from nursing and other staff to address residents needs

• Visit residents, recruit participants, and porter them to/from studio and program areas.
• Set up, dismantle, and manage materials and equipment for programs and central activities.
• Plan and organize activities, events, and therapies based on resident records, interviews, and referrals; provide care conference reports as needed.
• Supervise and collaborate with volunteers, students, and interns.
• Document attendance, statistical information, RAI data, and progress in PointClickCare.
• Attend meetings, including multidisciplinary committees, and contribute to collaborative planning for large-scale events.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety policies, WHMIS, MSDS monitoring, and address safety issues.
• Order and procure supplies, materials, and equipment as authorized.
• Prepare for sessions through research and support facility functions with displays, decorations, and other tasks.
• Feeding residents as required

• Provide assistance with resident care during meals and other duties as assigned.

Minimum Education and skill requirements

• Bachelor of Fine Arts or Studio Arts Degree with a Teaching Certificate or equivalent professional experience, eg. practicing artist/teacher.
• Excellent Interpersonal skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Team player
• Knowledge of aging process
• Experience in dealing with people (specifically the frail, elderly, and physically/mentally challenged)
• Ability to problem solve
• Familiarity and competence with power tools/kilns/musical instruments and any instrument, tool or equipment used.
• Computer skills
• Competence in photography, and video, as applicable.

Please forward your resume and cover letter, outlining your background and experience with each key responsibility to be considered for the role.

We thank all candidates for applying; however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.

For candidates selected for consideration, Perley Health, upon request, will make reasonable accommodation for any disability-related needs with respect to the recruitment process and materials.