We are seeking an enthusiastic, experienced and dedicated Head of Department to provide strong instructional and operational leadership within our school. As Head of Department, you will lead and manage their faculty to deliver high-quality teaching and learning, drive curriculum planning and implementation, and improve student achievement and engagement through evidence-informed practices. This is a temporary full-time position commencing 21 January 2027 until 25 March 2027, unless otherwise determined.

About Us

Kepnock State High School is committed to working together with parents to prepare students for the next stage of their life. With excellent teaching practices, high expectations and a supportive and nurturing educational community, students are continuously guided throughout their personal pathway to success.

Situated within Bundaberg's coastal strip, Kepnock High offers a comprehensive curriculum that caters for the full range of students including those with tertiary aspirations, vocational training needs and general personal and employability skills and development.

Our core values are direct but significant: Learning, Responsibility and Respect. Accepting opportunities to learn and working to the best of one's ability at all times is a excellent foundation for the future. The values around respect and responsibility are cornerstones for how we view ourselves and others in our school and wider community.

About the Role

The Head of Department will oversee the Agriculture faculty which is a well-established and highly regarded program supported by an 11-acre school farm and quality agricultural facilities. Students engage in a range of practical and industry-relevant learning experiences across plant and animal production, with a strong focus on contemporary farming practices, sustainability and student engagement.



The program is a valued part of the school's identity and provides authentic pathways for students interested in agriculture and related industries.

The successful applicant will also lead the Home Economics faculty, including Hospitality and Fashion studies, providing leadership across two highly engaging curriculum areas that offer students valuable practical skills and diverse pathway opportunities.

Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

- Provide strategic leadership and direction for the department, establishing and driving a shared vision focused on high-quality teaching, learning and improved outcomes for all students.
- Promote an inclusive, equitable and socially just learning environment, embedding high expectations, positive relationships and a culture of accountability for both staff and students.
- Lead and support staff professional growth through ongoing professional development, collaboration, mentoring and a commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in teaching practice.
- Build and maintain effective partnerships with students, parents, school leadership, government agencies and community organisations to strengthen student engagement, wellbeing and learning outcomes.
- Demonstrate strategic and future-focused leadership by ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and departmental policies, while effectively managing human, financial, facilities and curriculum resources to achieve departmental priorities and goals.

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

How to apply

- Please submit a brief resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should have an understanding of your relevant work history); and
- A 2-page written statement in response to 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.

📌 Head of Department - Kepnock State High School (Northern Rivers)
🏢 Queensland Department of Education
📍 Northern Rivers