Mackay State High School is seeking an exceptional educational leader for the role of Head of Department - Senior Schooling. This pivotal position is responsible for overseeing academic achievement, QCE attainment, pathways, and engagement for students in Years 11 and 12, ensuring they are well-prepared for success in ATAR, VET, and employment pathways. The successful applicant will lead curriculum, engagement, and wellbeing initiatives aligned with the Department of Education’s Equity and Excellence Strategy, with a strong focus on high-quality teaching, student achievement, and effective post-school transitions.

Apply now to lead meaningful outcomes for senior students at Mackay State High School.

Job details

Why Join Mackay State High School:

Be part of an innovative leadership team driving the implementation of our Vertical House System and lead a House that embodies community, belonging and student pride. Enjoy the lifestyle benefits of living in Mackay, a vibrant regional city with access to the Whitsundays.

Mackay State High School is a large and diverse school community. Our mission is to provide educational excellence and diverse pathways for students, built on a culture of inclusion, high expectations and pride. Our committed and caring staff focus on developing each student to reach their full potential in academic, sporting, cultural and arts fields.

In preparing students to become tomorrow's citizens, our curriculum and co-curricular programs are designed to meet individual learning needs and career aspirations. We believe this is best achieved when teachers, students, parents and the wider community work together to build positive and supportive relationships.

At the heart of the school are the core values of Respect, Responsibility and Resilience. These three R's guide all practices and expectations for student engagement and support. We are proud of the work we do for our students and the community, which is reflected in our vision: “We Believe … We Achieve, Mackay High Pride!

Your Opportunity

As the Head of Department - Senior Schooling, you will:

• Lead Senior Curriculum & Pathways - Drive excellence in QCAA general, applied and VET Senior subjects, ensuring a strong culture of achievement and engagement.
• Data-Driven Leadership - Monitor and analyse senior school data, including QCE attainment, ATAR results, VET outcomes, attendance, and engagement, to inform strategic decision-making.
• Post-School Transitions - Strengthen partnerships with universities, training providers, and industry to enhance student pathways and post-school success.
• Student Engagement & Wellbeing - Implement targeted initiatives to support senior students, including mentoring, case management, and intervention strategies for at-risk students.
• Instructional Leadership - Support teachers in curriculum planning, assessment, and pedagogy to improve senior schooling outcomes.
• School Leadership Team Member - Contribute to the whole-school strategic direction and play an integral role in student leadership and school culture development.
• Collaboration & Partnerships - Capacity to build strong relationships with teachers, students, parents, universities, and industry partners.
• Manage the human, financial, facilities and curriculum resources of the school department to achieve goals.

Your role

As the Head of Department - Senior Schooling, your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: 

• Lead the school department to develop, articulate and commit to a shared educational vision focussed on providing quality learning outcomes for all students.
• Embed socially just practices in daily school life.
• Set high standards for student and staff performance.

Interested? To Apply 

• A brief resume (Maximum 3 page) resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should have an understanding of your relevant previous work history)
• Attach a written statement (2-page maximum) addressing Key Capabilities 1-4 as per Role Description "How you will be assessed" section. 
• 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.

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

For a full list of the position responsibilities and mandatory requirements, please ensure you download the attached Role Description and Applicant Information Package and follow the instructions.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• Applicant Information Package (PDF, 245KB)
  Information Package for Applicants
  
  CQR661037_25T - Role Description (PDF, 180KB)
  Role Description