The Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) is seeking a Director to join the External Assessment Branch. The External Assessment Branch is responsible for the implementation of external assessments for Queensland’s education community. The branch is made up of 3 work units: NAPLAN; AARA; and External Assessment Implementation.

Job details

What you will do

In the Director role, you will:

• Provide strategic and expert advice to the Executive Director of the Division and other senior management, regarding the development, interpretation and implementation of policies and strategic plans involving curriculum, syllabuses, standards, assessment, quality assurance and the processes leading to senior certification.
• Provide strategic leadership, direction and management of the implementation of the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) system, ensuring public confidence in the assessment, AARA, certification and information functions of the QCAA.
• Direct, supervise and provide overall management and coordination of the work of Managers, Principal Project Officers and team leaders in planning, developing, implementing and evaluating the activities associated with the Authority's testing programs.
• Lead and direct the construction, production, operation and refinement of the Authority's annual testing program, including NAPLAN Tests, Senior External Examinations, and External Assessments for General and Applied Essential subjects.
• Develop strategic and operational plans and conduct evidence-led analysis and review activities that support and sustain continuous improvement and accountability in all facets of the work of the QCAA.
• Manage the overall budget expenditure for activities associated with the implementation of external assessments, NAPLAN and AARA within budget allocations and delegations.
• Engage with and evaluate external services provided by contractors and consultants.
• Maintain and promote an environment of cooperative endeavour with schools to deliver curriculum, assessment and reporting services that are contemporary, responsive and promote integrity.
• Establish and maintain partnerships with other sections of the Authority to support test analysis, reporting of results and publication of test materials and data.
• Prepare, coordinate and present submissions, policy responses, speeches and briefings, and prepare accurate responses to sensitive correspondence.
• Negotiate and liaise with other stakeholders across education sectors and agencies in the area of educational testing and test analysis as part of policy development.
• Represent the Authority at major state and national forums regarding AARA, NAPLAN and external assessment testing and testing analysis issues.

What we are looking for

The QCAA is committed to selecting the person best suited to the role and to furthering equity and diversity. We strongly encourage applications from all gender groups, Aboriginal people, Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally diverse backgrounds and people with all abilities.

The ideal candidate for this role:

• Anticipates the consequences of public policy on the organisation and community, and engages in high level critical thinking to identify the links and implications between complex issues (Leads strategically)
• Maintains an optimistic outlook and encourages the same in others, focusing on organisational strategy and objectives through periods of uncertainty (Leads change in complex environments)
• Identifies the underlying cause of systemic and organisational issues through considered analysis of data, patterns and insights (Makes insightful decisions)
• Contributes own expertise for the benefit of the organisation, acting as a mentor, coach and sponsor of capability development initiatives (Develops and mobilises talent)
• Reads contentious and sensitive situations and responds appropriately to manage relationships (Builds enduring relationships)
• Actively seeks cross-sector collaborations to overcome issues and direct resources towards matters of priority (Drives accountability and outcomes)
• Builds confidence and trust as a leader who respects and prioritises people's wellbeing (Fosters healthy and inclusive workplaces)
• Visibly role models a curiosity and passion for life-long learning by seeking feedback and communicating openly about strengths and development goals (Pursues continuous growth)

Role models impartiality and inspires a culture that respects and appreciates policy frameworks and governance (Demonstrates sound governance).

Further information

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

Documents

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

• SO Director External Assessment April 2025 (PDF, 155KB)
  Role Description
  
  QCAA Information for applicants (PDF, 216KB)
  Information Package for Applicants