Deputy Head of Secondary School

Deputy Head of Secondary School

Applications are warmly invited for the position of Deputy Head of Secondary School at A.B. Paterson College, a leading Gold Coast school known for academic excellence, strong character development, and a vibrant co-curricular offering. ANZUK Executive is proud to partner with the College on this important appointment.

About A.B. Paterson College

Guided by the values of excellence, care, commitment, creativity, leadership, integrity, community and respect, A.B. Paterson College is renowned for its strong academic achievements, vibrant co-curricular program, and commitment to character development. The College fosters a culture of high expectations, personal growth, and lifelong learning within a safe, inclusive, and aspirational environment.

Position Summary

The Deputy Head of Secondary School is a key member of the Senior Leadership Team and works closely with the Head of Secondary School, Deputy Principal and Principal. The role provides day-to-day leadership of students and staff across Years 7–12, with a strong focus on student wellbeing, behaviour, engagement, and pastoral care.

The position leads key student-facing functions, including behaviour management processes, wellbeing initiatives, the SELF Program, student leadership, and restorative practices. It also works collaboratively with Junior School leaders to ensure continuity of support and a seamless transition for students across their College journey.

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

• Lead student wellbeing, behaviour and engagement across Years 7–12.
• Build strong relationships with students and families.
• Oversee behaviour expectations, attendance and restorative practices.
• Lead wellbeing programs, service learning, camps and experiential learning.
• Ensure child safety and wellbeing compliance.
• Support and develop wellbeing staff, promoting accountability and team cohesion.
• Manage wellbeing data, reporting and communication with key stakeholders.
• Contribute to a positive, values-driven culture across the College.

Ideal Candidate Attributes

• Inspirational, student-centred leader with strong wellbeing and behaviour expertise
• Strategic, organised and solutions-focused
• Outstanding communicator and relationship-builder
• Emotionally intelligent decision-maker with professional presence
• Collaborative and future-focused, modelling a culture of care and excellence

Essential Criteria

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in Education (postgraduate leadership study advantageous)
• Current QCT registration (or eligibility to obtain)
• Demonstrated leadership experience in wellbeing, behaviour management or pastoral care
• Proven success in leading teams and supporting at-risk students
• High-level communication, organisational and interpersonal skills
• Strong understanding of compliance, duty of care, and child protection obligations
• Strong digital literacy skills (TASS, Schoolbox and Microsoft applications advantageous)

Commencement

Term 1, 2026, or by negotiation

An attractive leadership remuneration package will be offered, commensurate with experience.

How to Apply

Applications close: 12 December 2026

Please submit a single PDF including:

• One-page cover letter
• Two-page response to selection criteria (as outlined in the Applicant Information Pack)
• Curriculum Vitae with contact details of two referees

To request the Applicant Information Pack or for a confidential conversation, please contact:

Aoife McAuliffe | Aoife..education |

Brendan Fraser | brendan..education |

Applications will be reviewed as received. The College reserves the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date.

Send applications to: brendan..education and Aoife..education