Head of Boarding

ANZUK Executive invites applications for the position of Head of Boarding at Somerville House, a leading independent day and boarding school for girls from Pre-Prep to Year 12, with co-educational Pre-Prep. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader to shape and enrich the boarding experience at one of Queensland's most respected girls' schools.

The School

Founded in 1899, Somerville House provides exceptional education for students from Pre-Prep to Year 12. The School is recognised for academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care, and a broad co-curricular program that nurtures the holistic development of each student. A member of the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association (PMSA), Somerville House provides a safe, supportive Christian environment where students are empowered to discover their talents and make meaningful contributions to society.

Position Purpose

The Head of Boarding provides strategic and operational leadership of the Boarding House, ensuring a caring, safe and structured environment for students and staff. This senior role is responsible for the culture, administration, and pastoral programs within boarding, and plays an integral part in the wider school community.

Reporting to the Deputy Principal (and the Principal thereafter), the successful candidate will lead a dedicated team, develop strong partnerships with parents and guardians, and model exemplary professional standards. With responsibility for budget oversight, staff management, and student wellbeing, the Head of Boarding will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of boarding at Somerville House.

Key Responsibilities (Abridged – full details in the Candidate Information Pack)

• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of the Boarding House
• Manage and mentor boarding staff, fostering a professional and collaborative culture
• Oversee student wellbeing, discipline, and pastoral care programs
• Build strong partnerships with parents, guardians, and the broader community
• Oversee boarding budgets, staffing, rosters, and administration
• Lead and inspire a positive and future-focused boarding culture
• Act as a key member of the Leadership Team, contributing to school-wide initiatives

About You

We are seeking an experienced and relational leader who is passionate about boarding, student wellbeing, and staff development. You will demonstrate:

• Formal qualifications and experience in residential care or boarding leadership
• Significant experience in an independent boarding school, in Australia or overseas
• Proven ability to lead and support teenage girls, with strong pastoral and behavioural management skills
• High-level organisational, administrative, and communication skills
• Capacity to lead change, inspire staff, and engage positively with families
• A strong commitment to the Christian ethos and traditions of Somerville House and the PMSA

Essential:

• Queensland College of Teachers registration (or eligibility)
• Blue Card for working with children (or eligibility)

Why Join Somerville House?

• Lead a high-profile boarding program in a respected independent girls' school
• On-campus accommodation and use of a School vehicle provided
• Opportunity to influence and shape the boarding experience for students and staff
• Be part of a supportive leadership team within a values-driven community

Application Process

Applications close: Friday, 17 October 2025

For a confidential discussion or to request the Candidate Information Pack, please contact:

Craig Kerr – |

Aoife McAuliffe – | aoife..education

Application Requirements

Please submit a single PDF document including:

• A one-page cover letter
• A two-page statement addressing the selection criteria (as outlined in the Candidate Pack)
• A full Curriculum Vitae, including contact details for two professional referees

Email applications to:

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Somerville House reserves the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date