ABOUT THE ROLE

Cranbrook School is seeking an experienced and passionate Head of Oratory, Senior School to lead and support the School’s Oratory and debating programmes, commencing in Term 4, 2026. The role will focus on fostering students’ confidence, communication skills and engagement in public speaking, social and competitive debating, and related activities. Working collaboratively with relevant staff, the Head of Oratory will coordinate and deliver Oratory opportunities across the School while promoting a strong culture of participation and excellence.

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to student development through a vibrant and valued co-curricular programme.

The role is based at the School’s Senior School Campus in Bellevue Hill, with an expectation that the successful candidate will be onsite Monday, Thursday and Friday.

Contract arrangements will also be considered for the right candidate.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

- Lead and support the development of the School’s Oratory and debating programmes.
- Encourage student participation, confidence and excellence in Oratory.
- Coordinate coaches, staff, adjudicators and relevant Oratory activities.
- Support the preparation and development of students for relevant competitions.
- Manage the organisation, communication and logistics associated with the Oratory programme.
- Build positive relationships with students, staff and external schools.
- Contribute to the broader co-curricular programme and the work of the Co-curricular Committee.

ABOUT YOU

The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Strong commitment to student development and engagement in Oratory and public speaking.
- Demonstrated experience or expertise in public speaking, debating, Oratory or a related discipline.
- Outstanding communication, interpersonal and organisational skills.
- A collaborative approach and ability to engage, encourage and mentor students.

WORKING AT CRANBROOK

At Cranbrook,



we are committed to fostering a positive and supportive workplace where people feel a strong sense of purpose and belonging, are encouraged to build positive relationships, engage in meaningful work, and have opportunities to grow, contribute and flourish. Cranbrook School is a leading independent Anglican school located in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, providing students with a rich educational experience across academic, sporting, cultural and co-curricular programs.

SELECTION CRITERIA

- Relevant experience in Oratory, debating, public speaking or a related discipline.
- Demonstrated experience developing and supporting students in public speaking and debating.
- Strong knowledge of debating, public speaking and/or competitive Oratory.
- Demonstrated ability to build student confidence, engagement and performance through effective coaching and feedback.
- Strong organisational and coordination skills, including the ability to manage competitions, events, schedules and communications.
- Ability to work collaboratively with staff, coaches, adjudicators, students and external organisations.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- A commitment to student wellbeing, safeguarding and positive student engagement.
- Current NSW Working with Children Check clearance, or eligibility to obtain one.
- Current First Aid and CPR qualifications, where required.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications should include a resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria and reasons for your interest in the position. Applications should be submitted via email to [email protected].



Details of at least three referees and relevant statements of service will be requested from the preferred candidate.

CLOSING DATE: Monday, 31 August 2026.

ABOUT CRANBROOK SCHOOL

Founded in 1918, Cranbrook School is a multi-campus Anglican independent day and boarding school for students in Pre-School to Year 12. In 2026, the School welcomed girls into Years 7 and 11, with full coeducation across the campus by 2029. Guided by its enduring vision to be a world-class school that nurtures and enables every student to fulfil their potential and thrive, Cranbrook offers a values-led education enriched by academic excellence and extensive sporting and co-curricular opportunities. The School’s motto, esse quam videri – “to be, rather than to seem to be” – underpins its commitment to authenticity, character and service. This well-rounded educational approach provides an educational experience that celebrates each individual and prepares every Cranbrookian for a purposeful life of contribution within and beyond the School gates.

Overlooking Sydney Harbour and set on approximately 13 hectares in one of Sydney's most prestigious eastern suburbs, the School currently educates over 1,800 students across four campuses: two Pre-Schools – St Michael's and St Mark's – a Junior School campus in Rose Bay, and the Senior School Campus in Bellevue Hill. The School's two Boarding Houses provide care and accommodation for 75 students from Years 7 to 12.

Cranbrook School is a child safe organisation. We actively promote the safety and wellbeing of all students and are committed to protecting our students from abuse and harm.

WORKING WITH CHILDREN CHECK AND WORKING RIGHTS

The successful applicant for this position will be required to hold a current NSW Working with Children Check clearance. Applicants must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident or hold a visa with appropriate working rights.

📌 Head of Oratory, Senior School – Term 4, 2026 | Bellevue Hill
🏢 Cranbrook School
📍 Bellevue Hill