Mackay State High School is seeking two exceptional educational leaders to join the team as Head of Department - Student Services. Each successful applicant will lead one of the school’s four Houses as part of the newly implemented Vertical House System, fostering a strong sense of identity, belonging, and pride among students from Years 7 to 12. This key leadership role combines visible leadership, student wellbeing, restorative practices, data-informed intervention, and student case management to ensure that every student feels supported, connected, and engaged in their learning journey.

Apply now to lead with purpose and help shape a supportive, inclusive school culture 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. 

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 a Head of Department - Student Services, you will:

• Lead the engagement (attendance and behaviour), wellbeing and pastoral care of students in your House (Years 7-12).
• Led and collaborate case management, attendance, and tier 2 behaviour supports, ensuring all students are known and supported through documented plans and clear communication.
• Implement restorative practices and data-driven strategies to improve student engagement and outcomes.
• Build strong partnerships with parents, staff, and community organisations to enhance student opportunities.
• Drive House culture, identity, and pride through events, House Days, and student leadership initiatives.
• Line manage House Coordinators, providing mentoring, coaching, and professional growth.

A strong understanding of Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) is highly advantageous for this role.

Key Responsibilities

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

• Lead student wellbeing programs, including House Days, community service, and student leadership.
• Identify and support students requiring targeted intervention, guided by data and referrals.
• Conduct classroom observations and coach staff in effective engagement strategies.
• Lead Tier 2 behaviour interventions including monitoring cards, goal-setting, restorative conferences, and Reset Room processes.
• Develop Behaviour Support Plans, Discipline Improvement Plans, and Personalised Learning Plans (including NCCD capture).
• Monitor and drive attendance improvement across your House, implementing plans and fostering positive family partnerships.
• Oversee behaviour and attendance case meetings, ensuring multi-tiered supports are in place.
• Analyse House-level attendance and behaviour data to contribute to whole-school reporting.
• Inspire a culture of Mackay High Pride, ensuring your House is a true source of belonging and identity for every student.

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
  
  CQR661019_25T - Role Description (PDF, 181KB)
  Role Description