Head of Department

Dakabin State High School is seeking a dynamic and innovative Head of Department - Agriculture / Vocational Education and Training to join the team in a leadership role responsible for strategically leading the development, delivery, and continuous improvement of the school's Agriculture and VET programs,
requiring a strong background in agricultural science, vocational education, and curriculum leadership, with the Head of Department - Agriculture / Vocational Education and Training ensuring these programs meet student needs, comply with regulatory frameworks, and align with school and departmental
priorities.

Apply now and help shape the future of Agriculture and VET at Dakabin State High School.

About the Department

Working for the Queensland Department of Education means joining an organisation that values its people and promotes leadership and innovation. Be part of an environment that respects professionalism and diversity, offers training and development opportunities and embraces flexible careers and work-life balance. Find out more about working with us ( ).

Your Responsibilities

As the Head of Department - Agriculture / Vocational Education and Training, your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Leadership and Management
• Lead and manage the Agriculture and VET faculty, including teaching staff, agricultural assistants, and support personnel.
• Develop and implement strategic plans that enhance student engagement, achievement, and pathway options.
• Build staff capability through mentoring, professional development, and performance reviews.
• Curriculum and Program Development
• Oversee curriculum planning and delivery for Agriculture subjects (Years 7-12) and nationally accredited VET programs.
• Ensure compliance with AQTF (Australian Quality Training Framework) and RTO (Registered Training Organisation) requirements.
• Embed contemporary industry practices and technologies into teaching programs.
• Resource and Facilities Management
• Manage agricultural resources, including livestock, crops, and equipment, ensuring compliance with safety and animal welfare standards.
• Coordinate the use and maintenance of school agricultural facilities (e.g. school farm).
• Manage VET-related equipment and industry-standard tools to support practical learning.
• Industry and Community Engagement
• Build strong partnerships with local industry, TAFEs, and community stakeholders to enhance student learning and employment pathways.
• Promote school agriculture and VET achievements through events, competitions, and exhibitions.
• Facilitate work experience, school-based apprenticeships, and traineeships for VET students.
• Data and Compliance
• Monitor student performance data to inform teaching practices and intervention strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all educational and legislative requirements (e.g. QCAA, ASQA, WHS).
• Maintain accurate documentation for VET audits and funding applications.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

Mandatory requirements for this role are current full registration, or current provisional registration with eligibility for full registration, as a teacher in Queensland. However, it is highly desirable that our next Head of Department – Agriculture / Vocational Education and Training holds additional qualifications of:

• Teaching qualifications in Agricultural Science or related field.
• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40116 or equivalent).
• Relevant industry experience in agriculture, agribusiness, or VET sectors.
• Experience in managing or contributing to an RTO.

Key Capabilities and Selection Criteria

1. Demonstrated capacity to lead curriculum, teaching and learning improvement in Agricultural Science and VET.
2. High-level knowledge of the Australian Curriculum, QCAA syllabuses, and national VET frameworks.
3. Proven ability to develop and maintain effective team and stakeholder relationships.
4. Experience in managing agricultural facilities and VET compliance in a school context.
5. Strong organisational, communication, and data literacy skills.

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 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.