Join our dynamic team at Cairns School of Distance Education and step into the exciting role of Head of Department (Secondary).

This is your chance to be a pivotal leader in our high-achieving school community. We're offering a full-time permanent position, giving you the opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of education while working alongside a passionate and dedicated team.

Apply now to be a part of our vibrant academic community and help shape the next generation of leaders.

Job details

About Cairns School of Distance Education

Cairns School of Distance Education sits within the Department's virtual learning ecosystem. In 2025 we have over 4000 full-time and part-time students across Prep to year 12, globally. Within the global virtual learning ecosystem, our vision is to provide world class curriculum, teaching and learning. Our students can access learning 24/7. Our unique environment presents some different challenges in leading learning. We deliver synchronous and asynchronous teaching. Your role will see you engage and lead within this environment. We acknowledge continuous learning for our team is critical in pursuing our vision of being the most connected, distinctive and authentic global learning community.

About the Role

You will have responsibility for leading the following activities and delivery of the following key tasks:

• Lead the relevant curriculum areas or whole school program 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.
• Actively participate in lifelong learning and ongoing professional development.
• Form partnerships with students, parents, other government agencies, and community groups.

Please refer to the attached role description for any mandatory requirements for this position.

How to Apply

• Please attach a brief resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should have an understanding of your relevant previous work history); and
• A 1-pg written statement about how your achievements and capabilities meet the requirements of the role.
• Attach a copy of your mandatory qualifications/registration 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. 

When working in regulated employment an employee must have a current Working with Children Clearance (blue card) issued by Blue Card Services.

Salary rate shown is reflective of full-time (1.0 FTE). 

The Department of Education is a family inclusive workplace. Click here to find out more about our Inclusion and Diversity strategies. 

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 candidate information fact sheet and follow the instructions.

Documents

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

• FNR643186_25P - Role Description (PDF, 144KB)
  Role Description
  
  Applicant Information Package (PDF, 245KB)
  Information Package for Applicants