Head of Department

4 weeks ago

Cairns, Queensland, Australia Queensland Department of Education Full time

Smithfield State High School is seeking an innovative and motivated Head of Department - Teaching and Learning to lead our dedicated coaching team. In this key role, you will support teachers to deliver engaging, challenging, and high-quality curriculum and pedagogy across the school. The position also includes curriculum leadership responsibilities within the Languages Key Learning Area, contributing to the ongoing development of excellence in language education.

If you're ready to lead professional growth and inspire impactful teaching practices, apply now and be part of a forward-thinking and supportive team.

Image courtesy of Smithfield State High School

About The Department

The Department of Education is dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce that reflects the community and schools we support by treating everyone with respect and dignity. This starts with recruitment and selection. The methods of assessing suitability in the recruitment process may vary. This includes making reasonable adjustments to support applicants at all stages of the process and employee lifecycle.

About The School

Smithfield State High School is a positive and welcoming community focused on student learning and wellbeing. With a progressive and inclusive curriculum for all year levels, the school prepares students for academic success and future pathways. As an Independent Public School, Smithfield works closely with local primary schools and James Cook University, and offers an International Student Program. The school promotes high expectations, strong student engagement, and a wide range of extra-curricular activities. Supported by dedicated staff and a passionate community, Smithfield provides a world-class education that equips students to become confident, well-rounded individuals ready to meet future challenges.

About The Role

As the Head of Department - Teaching and Learning, you will lead curriculum development aligned with school and departmental priorities, contributing to the vision of the Early Childhood and State Schools Division. Your role involves enhancing the quality of teaching and learning while fostering positive relationships among students, teachers, and stakeholders. Drawing on your experience as a pedagogical coach and a student-centered approach, you will build strong professional relationships across the teaching team. Your interpersonal skills will be essential in leading your team, inspiring colleagues, building trust, and managing change effectively.

Your Responsibilities

As the Head of Department - Teaching and Learning, your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

  • Lead the school department to develop, articulate and commit to a shared educational vision focussed on providing quality learning outcomes for all students.
  • Embed socially just practices in daily school life.
  • Set high standards for student and staff performance.
  • Actively participate in lifelong learning and ongoing professional development.

Please refer to the attached role description for the full list of responsibilities and mandatory requirements for this position.

Interested? To Apply
  • Attach a brief resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should be familiar with your relevant work history).
  • Attach a written statement (2-page maximum) addressing Key Capabilities 1-4 as per Role Description "How you will be assessed" section.
  • Attach a copy of the mandatory requirements outlined in the attached role description

We welcome all applicants to share any support needed to ensure our recruitment process is inclusive.

Applications remain current for 12 months from the closing date and may be considered for appointment to identical or similar vacancies within the Department.

Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

When working in regulated employment an employee must have a current Working with Children Clearance (blue card) issued by Blue Card Services.

The Department of Education is a family inclusive workplace. Click here to find out more about our Inclusion and Diversity strategies.

Occupational group Education & Training
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