Head of Diverse Learning

The McDonald College is an independent, non-denominational, co-educational K – 12 school located in North Strathfield.

We specialise in performing arts and elite tennis, with an equal focus on academic rigour. Performance streams include Acting, Classical Ballet, Dance, Music, Musical Theatre, Technical Production and Elite Tennis.

There is a strong sense of community at The McDonald College. We are a small and dedicated team where students are at the heart of everything we do. We share in their passion for performance – whether that is in the classroom, on-stage, in the studio or on the court.

POSITION TITLE

Head of Diverse Learning

EMPLOYMENT TYPE

Permanent full-time, commencing January 2026

THIS ROLE REPORTS TO

The Principal delegated to the Deputy Principal

The Head of Diverse Learning provides strategic leadership, coordination, and advocacy to ensure that students with diverse learning needs are supported to access, participate, and achieve in all areas of school life. This role leads the development and implementation of inclusive practices across the school, aligning with NESA requirements, AIS Independent School policies, Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the school's vision and values.

The Head of Diverse Learning works collaboratively with students, families, teachers, school leaders, and external professionals to design, implement, and monitor high-quality adjustments, interventions, and support programs that promote equity, wellbeing, and success for every learner.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the Diverse Learning Team in developing and embedding inclusive teaching practices across K–12.
• Oversee NCCD compliance, reporting, and disability provisions for assessments and NESA examinations.
• Coordinate and implement Individual Learning Plans, behaviour support plans, and risk assessments.
• Liaise with external professionals (psychologists, OTs, speech pathologists, NDIS coordinators) to integrate recommendations into classroom practice.
• Drive professional learning initiatives to build staff capacity in supporting students with additional learning, behavioural, social-emotional, or wellbeing needs.
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and supportive school culture.
• Support classroom teachers with differentiation, curriculum adjustments, and evidence-based strategies.
• Facilitate collaborative planning meetings between staff, parents, and external providers.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

• Qualified teacher with NESA accreditation.
• Postgraduate qualifications in Special/Inclusive Education
• Demonstrated leadership experience in learning support or inclusion.
• Strong knowledge of disability legislation, inclusive pedagogy, and evidence-based practices.
• A collaborative and empathetic leader committed to student wellbeing and success.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and student wellbeing.
• Excellent communication and advocacy skills.
• High level of empathy, patience, and cultural sensitivity.
• Reflective practitioner committed to ongoing professional growth.

PLEASE INCLUDE WITH YOUR APPLICATION

• Cover letter, addressing the selection criteria and acknowledge that you have no knowledge of:

· any Child Protection allegations against you

· any professional misconduct allegations concerning you

• A Curriculum Vitae
• Working With Children Check, including date of expiry and date of birth
• Completed Child Safe Applicant Declaration
• Contact details of two (2) professional referees, one of which must be from your latest employer

PLEASE ADDRESS YOUR APPLICATION TO

Maxine Kohler c/o

Interviews will commence as soon as suitable candidates apply.

CLOSING DATE

4pm on Friday 17 October 2025

Statement of Commitment to Child Safety and Wellbeing

All children and young people who come to The McDonald College have a right to feel and be safe. We are committed to providing a child safe and child friendly environment, where children and young people are safe and feel safe and are able to actively participate in decisions that affect their lives.

We have a zero ­­­tolerance for child abuse and other harm and are committed to acting in students' best interests and keeping them safe from harm.

The College regards its child safe responsibilities with the utmost importance and is committed to providing the necessary resources to ensure compliance with all relevant child protection laws and regulations and maintaining a child safe culture.

Each member of the College community has a responsibility to understand the important and specific role they play individually, and collectively, to ensure that the wellbeing and safety of all students is at the forefront of all that they do, and every decision they make.

The child's right to privacy is respected and supported based on honest and open communication. Fostering trust and respecting boundaries will nurture confident young adults.

The College's Statement of Commitment to Child Safety has been designed to reflect the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations.

Please see here for The McDonald College Child Safe Applicant Declaration