Studio Guide (mentor, coach, game-maker)

to

Acton Academy NH is an innovative private school reimagining education. We believe that children are capable of far more than people typically imagine. Our mission is to foster a growth mindset and help each hero (student) discover their unique calling. Our small, mixed-age classrooms are a modern twist on the classic one-room schoolhouse, where students learn to mentor and be mentored by one another. Through a learner-driven environment, real-world projects, and self-paced learning, we empower students to take ownership not only of their own education but also of who they’re becoming.

Our approach to learning is not centered around tests, grades, or teachers leading lectures. Our classroom structure is unique. It ensures that the Guides create and facilitate the learning environment, but empowers students to take ownership of their individual learning path and collective classroom governance.

This is a full-time position (5 days per week) from late August '25 to June ’26 . Our program consists of 5 days per week spent in the Studio and with ample time spent outdoors and being active. The Guide position will work in partnership with the Head of School (and/or other Guides).

​

• Observe, mentor, and guide young heroes in setting goals and in developing independence, problem-solving skills, and character
  
• Inspire learners and empower them to hold each other accountable to maintain a safe, engaging, and learner-driven studio environment
  
• Support learners on their journey to cultivate a positive, beautiful, orderly, and inspiring studio (classroom) environment
  
• Design and experiment with new projects, tools, and approaches to refine existing learning design, curriculum, and studio systems
  
• Set an example for students, modeling values like honesty, accountability, respect, and kindness as well as the hero�s journey
  
• Handle a few administrative tasks, including maintaining supplies and equipment, and updating school records
  
• Work with other staff to research, find, and schedule guest speakers, plan field trips, and organize events and celebrations
  
• Participate in school activities and accompany students on field trips
  
• Practice the Socratic method at all times to deepen learners� thinking and problem-solving (i.e., instead of answering questions, use the Socratic method to challenge learners to find the answers themselves)
  
• Complete Acton Academy guide training and ongoing professional development
  
• Practice and lead Socratic discussions
  

​

• Passion for lifelong learning and alternative education models
  
• Ability to guide without rescuing - letting children learn from natural consequences
  
• Ability to guide without answering questions
  
• Previous experience working with children 4-11, especially in non-traditional settings
  
• Has a growth mindset (not a victim mindset); coachable and excited to grow
  
• Can tell a story, invent a game, and design scientific experiments, creative challenges, and team-building activities
  

• Is fun, playful, conscientious, organized, and takes initiative
  
• Loves nature, the outdoors, and being active
  
• A passionate, entrepreneurial individual who believes in empowering children to learn and grow independently
  
• Is both kind-hearted and tough-minded, able to maintain a calm, positive demeanor in the face of challenges
  
• Ideal for those with previous entrepreneurial experience, international experience, or experience/training in Socratic, Montessori, or nature-based methods
  
• Ideal for those with experience as a nanny, coach, camp counselor, or youth leader
  

• The opportunity to work in one of the most innovative educational environments in the world.
  
• A supportive and mission-driven team that values personal and professional growth.
  
• A clear path for leadership development, with the potential for growth into a Lead Guide role or even the opportunity to open your own Acton Academy in the future.
  
• Competitive compensation, based on experience, with opportunities for continued learning and development.
  
• The chance to make a profound, long-lasting impact on the lives of children and be a part of something transformative.
  

Acton Academy NH offers competitive pay; however, no additional benefits are provided (medical insurance must be acquired independently). This is a 10-month position (mid-August through mid-June). Employees are paid every two weeks. There is an opportunity for this position to move to a salaried full-year position over time as the school grows.

Please submit your resume along with a cover letter sharing why you're passionate about child-led learning and how your experience aligns with our mission. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Qualified candidates should begin reading “Courage To Grow†by Laura Sandefer. Once an application is reviewed, a phone call and an in-person meeting at the school building in Laconia will be scheduled at applicant's earliest convenience.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.00 - $24.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35 - 40 per week

Benefits:

• Employee discount
  
• On-the-job training
  
• Professional development assistance
  

Work Location: In person