SK205 – Governess – Sarasota, FL

Overview:

A lovely family in Sarasota, FL are seeking an exceptional, experienced Governess and Homeschool Educator to join their private family and lead the educational journey of their 6-year-old son, while also supporting light developmental activities for their 14-month-old toddler in collaboration with the full-time au pair. The governess will oversee and guide the au pair, ensuring a consistent and enriching environment for both children. The general schedule is Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM. This is a high-level educational role that blends formal academic instruction, hands-on experiential learning, and mentorship. The mother is a highly involved stay-at-home parent who will actively participate in activities and field trips, and the governess will work in partnership with her to plan and execute a vibrant, play-based curriculum. The ideal candidate will bring energy, creativity, and structure to each day, and must be comfortable working outdoors and around animals as the family lives on a hobby farm. Remote learning support or travel with the family is required, and a valid passport is necessary. Responsibilities:1. Primary Education for 6-Year-Old

• Design and implement a customized, interdisciplinary homeschool curriculum.
• Teach core subjects through project-based, exploratory, and nature-integrated learning.
• Incorporate STEM, arts, outdoor education, and movement-based activities.
• Coordinate participation in a homeschool co-op twice weekly for socialization.
• Foster independent thinking, curiosity, and leadership skills.

2. Oversight & Guidance of Au Pair (Toddler Development)

• Provide direction and educational structure to the au pair for toddler enrichment.
• Support early developmental play and learning for the toddler as needed.
• Guide sibling interaction to help foster leadership and bonding through shared activities.

3. Language Enrichment

• Teach a foreign language (preferred) or help coordinate regular tutoring sessions.
• Integrate language learning into daily routines, games, books, music, and lessons.

4. Enrichment Activities & Field Trips

• Plan and lead experiential outings, nature walks, museum visits, and other learning-based field trips.
• Research and help enroll the children in extracurricular activities such as art, music, or sports.
• Collaborate with the mother on community events and educational opportunities.

5. Travel & Remote Learning Support

• Maintain learning continuity during travel via live virtual sessions or in-person teaching.
• Travel with the family as needed (domestic and international); valid passport required.
• Complete lesson planning during co-op hours and while traveling.

Qualifications:

• Experience in high-net-worth households or private family settings.
• Fluency in or experience teaching a second language.
• Background in STEM, arts, or outdoor education.
• Familiarity with early childhood milestones and toddler learning strategies.

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Education, Child Development, or a related field preferred.
• 8–10+ years of experience in homeschooling, private education, or as a governess.
• Background in play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, or project-based learning.
• Strong curriculum development, organization, and leadership skills.
• Comfortable working alongside and guiding support staff (au pair).
• Must love the outdoors and animals, as this is a farm-based home environment.
• High energy, creative, nurturing, and adaptable.
• Tech-savvy for remote instruction and travel-based planning.
• Valid passport and ability to travel with the family as needed.

Salary and Benefits:

• $130,000 annual salary with standard benefits

• Collaborate with an involved and supportive parent
• No housekeeping or cooking—education and development are the core focus
• Structured yet flexible schedule with time built in for planning and creativity
• Opportunities for travel and experiential learning
• Beautiful home environment with animals, gardens, and outdoor space