EOI - Head of Department - Senior Schooling - Cairns State High School

We are seeking an exceptional Head of Department - Senior Schooling to provide visionary leadership and inspire excellence in teaching, learning, and student achievement. This key leadership role is responsible for leading a high-performing department, fostering a collaborative and innovative team culture, and driving curriculum development aligned with the school's strategic priorities.

This is a temporary full-time position commencing 06 October 2026 until 11 December 2026, unless otherwise determined. If you are a strategic thinker who thrives in a dynamic educational environment and is committed to creating engaging learning experiences and positive outcomes for young people, we encourage you to apply.

This temporary vacancy is open to Expressions of Interest and any extensions to this appointment will not exceed 12 months.

About Us:

Cairns State High School, established in 1917, is a school that values its long traditions yet also looks forward with energy to the future.

Our equally important yet innovative focus on ‘Wellbeing' means that we are building the right opportunities for students to develop into full participants in our fast-paced world. The great classroom experience hand-in-hand with developing resilience is the only way forward in a modern educational setting and Cairns High is leading the way. We are spending time and resources on developing new ways to develop ‘the whole person' and engaging with students along the way ensures that we listen to their views about what they need from their school.

About the Role:

Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

• Lead curriculum focus in line with school and departmental initiatives
• Participate in delivering the vision of Early Childhood and State Schools Division
• Develop the quality of teaching and learning
• Nurture positive relationships between students, teachers and stakeholders.

The Head of Department is accountable to and under the direction of the Principal or delegate.

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 1-page written statement about how your achievements and capabilities meet the requirements of the role. 

We welcome all applicants to share any support needed to ensure our recruitment process is inclusive. 

Applicants need to be a current Queensland Government employee to be eligible to apply.