Governess - Sarasota, FL

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

Regular Full-Time