Head of Department

Head of Department - Languages and Art role at Department of Education, Western Australia, based at Shenton College. This is a permanent full-time position commencing Term 1, 2026.

Shenton College offers a supportive and collaborative work environment with professional growth and development opportunities. The school provides state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated administrative support team, and operates a Middle School (Years 7-8) and Senior School (Years The role follows a Quality Teaching Strategy Lead School framework; familiarity with the Teaching for Impact framework and a commitment to professional learning are desired.

The school day runs 8:00 am–4:05 pm, including dedicated collaborative DOTT time on Wednesday afternoons to promote innovative and engaging teaching practices.

Shenton College prioritises holistic student development and fosters a collaborative, caring learning environment. The school features a nationally recognised GATE program and invites interested applicants to learn more at or via Schools Online.

Shenton College seeks a capable leader to foster a rich and diverse Languages and Arts curriculum that inspires creativity, critical thinking and cultural understanding. The successful applicant will ideally demonstrate a proven track record in the following areas:

• Leading and managing Quality Teaching and Learning in collaborative teams
• Providing strategic and visionary leadership for the Languages and Arts Department
• Developing and implementing Languages and Arts initiatives aligned with the school's business planning
• Leading and mentoring high-performing teams through inclusion and collaboration to produce positive educational outcomes
• Contributing to the overall vision and direction of the school
• Building strong collaborative relationships with staff

A key aspect of the role may involve implementing change management strategies to lead the school community in adopting opportunities for improved service within the subject area. Contributions should extend to the collaborative development of the school plan, involving participative decision-making, policy development and the establishment of necessary systems.

To work with us, you must:

• Be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident or have a valid visa with work rights for the term of the appointment
• Hold registration with the Teacher Registration Board of Western Australia
• Obtain a valid Working With Children Check before you start
• Consent to a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check and obtain a current Screening Clearance Number issued by the Department of Education's Screening Unit before you start

Additional eligibility and training requirements are outlined in the attached Job Description Form (JDF).

Apply online in two steps:

1. Step 1: Select Apply for Job. Complete the online application form, including details of two referees, preferably one being your current line manager.
2. Step 2: Attach your documents. Include a CV of up to four pages and a three-page statement addressing the selection criteria as outlined in the JDF.

The selection criteria include demonstrated leadership in diverse educational settings, interpersonal and public relations skills, professional knowledge applied to improve outcomes for all students, and capacity to manage staff, physical and financial resources.

It is recommended you have attachments ready before submitting. Late applications will not be accepted. For technical support, contact the Department of Education's Recruitment team at

Advertised Vacancy Number: IPS/SA Suitable applicants may be considered for similar vacancies within 12 months. The Department applies a four-day breach period to this selection process.

Applications close: 4.30pm (AWST) on Tuesday, 16 September 2025.

Working for the Department of Education includes competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, training and career development opportunities, and attractive leave provisions. We are committed to an inclusive and culturally responsive workforce reflecting the diversity of WA communities. Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, people of diverse sexual orientations and genders, people with disability, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds are encouraged. See the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion plan for more details.

Found details and the Job Description Form (JDF) contain the full role description, training requirements and selection criteria. For more information about this opportunity, please contact Adam Pengelly, Associate Principal, at or