Position Vacant - Head of English
July 18, 2025
Head of English
Commencing Term 1, 2026.
Position
POSITION: Head of English.
RESPONSIBLE TO: Principal through Head of Teaching and Learning.
REPORTS TO: Head of Teaching and Learning
KEY FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIPS: Heads of Department, English Teachers, Learning Enrichment Teachers, Teacher Aides.
Inspire. Empower. Lead.
Are you a passionate educator with a deep love of literature, language and literacy? Are you ready to lead an English Department that empowers girls to think critically, write courageously and speak with confidence?
We are seeking an exceptional Head of English to lead a high-performing English department in Toowoomba’s most respected girls’ school. This is a role for a leader who thrives on collaboration, innovation and the transformational power of education. As the Head of English you will drive curriculum excellence, lead dynamic teaching practices and help shape a future-focussed, intellectually rich learning environment for girls in Years 7-12.
The successful candidate will be offered an ongoing appointment as a teacher, alongside a three-year appointment as Head of English, with a six-month probationary period for each.
Position Description
Lead Teaching and Learning
- Align the English curriculum with the strategic direction of the College, ensuring exceptional student outcomes across Years 7-12
- Lead a future-focused English program that develops creativity, critical thinking, communication and a love of language.
- Inspire a collaborative and innovative culture within the English faculty
- Facilitate curriculum planning and implementation across all year levels, with expert knowledge of QCAA and Australian Curriculum requirements.
- Use data-informed practices to improve student learning outcomes, support differentiation and refine programs.
- Communicate effectively with students, staff and families about curriculum pathways and expectations.
- Monitor student progress and develop targeted strategies to stretch and support all learners
- Model teaching excellence across a range of year levels, including senior English.
- Collaborate with curriculum leaders to ensure a seamless and developmentally appropriate English program from junior to senior years.
Management and Operations
- Assist the Head of Teaching and Learning with the academic leadership of the College
- Manage assessment implementation and reporting processes for all English subjects.
- Oversee budgets, staffing and resourcing for the English Department.
- Represent the department at curriculum and Academic Committee meetings.
Professional Development
- Engage with and contribute to professional networks and organisations.
- Encourage and facilitate ongoing professional development for English staff.
- Lead department-wide initiatives aligned with current research and best practice.
- Support staff in meeting professional accreditation and performance review requirements.
- Mode a commitment to lifelong learning, including through postgraduate study or professional engagement.
Staff Wellbeing
- Provide support and mentoring to classroom teachers, including early career and preservice teachers.
- Foster a collaborative, respectful and supportive team culture.
Student Enrichment and Wellbeing
- Promote enrichment opportunities such as writing competitions, literature festivals, debating and public speaking.
- Support the holistic development of students by contributing to the College’s wellbeing and leadership programs.
General Expectations
- Uphold and actively support the College’s Christian values and traditions.
- Contribute to the broader life of the College including co-curricular and community events.
Selection Criteria
Applicants must address the following in their application:
- Demonstrated ability to:
a. Deliver outstanding English teaching across Years 7-12, including senior English subjects;
b. Lead and inspire a team, fostering collaboration and innovation;
c. Design and implement evidence-based, future-focused curriculum and pedagogy;
d. Manage the operational and strategic needs of a department with vision and efficiency. - A sound knowledge of the current English curriculum, QCAA syllabus and contemporary educational trends.
- A commitment to student wellbeing and engagement through rich learning experiences.
- A demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional learning, including engagement with academic literature and best practice.
- Registration with the Queensland College of Teachers.
Prospective candidates are requested to read the following documents prior to submitting an application.
Working with Children
As a College we are committed to the health and wellbeing of all our members and, in particular the welfare of all students in our care. As such, staff members are committed to prevention, identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect and adherence to the Child Protection Policy and the Staff Code of Conduct, both of which are available - see links below.
Whilst such policies have direct relevance to boarding, coaching, nursing and teaching staff, all prospective candidates are requested to read the following documents prior to submitting an application. Our responsibilities to work respectfully and thoughtfully with all, and particularly the young people in our care, are shared across all staff, evident in our demeanour, as well as our adherence to policy requirements.
Successful candidates are required to undergo a screening process prior to appointment and must comply with all College policies and relevant legislation related to student protection.
Communication Skills
- The ability to work collaboratively with work colleagues, and to communicate clearly and enthusiastically with staff, students, and families.
- An ability to support and enact a restorative practices approach to conflict resolution is required. See Restorative Practices at Fairholme ›
Workplace Health and Safety
As a member of the College, the successful applicant is required to follow all workplace, health and safety requirements that include but are not limited to:
- Adherence to and working knowledge of policy requirements;
- Cooperation with audit, professional learning and training/drill processes;
- Meticulous attention to reporting responsibilities and record-keeping obligations in relation to all workplace, health and safety matters.
The Package
The appointment is currently under the conditions of the Fairholme College Certified Agreement.
About Fairholme College
Fairholme College is a leading independent day and boarding school for girls from Prep to Year 12 in Toowoomba, Queensland. With a history dating back to 1908, the College is known for its academic achievement, Christian ethos, strong boarding culture, and commitment to nurturing each student’s potential.
Application Information
Applications should include:
- A cover email addressing the selection criteria
- A current CV
- A brief statement of your educational philosophy
- The names and contact details of three referees, including your current or most recent employer.
Submissions Due: Sunday 3 August 2025
Applications to:
Ms Rebecca Stone
Executive Assistant to Principal
Fairholme College
PO Box 688
TOOWOOMBA 4350
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 07 4688 4688
Inspire students. Lead with integrity. Shape a culture of excellence in English.
Apply now and help young women find their voice, and their future, through English.
Selection Process
The interview panel will review applications and determine a short list. Non successful candidates will be advised via email once the interview process has been completed and the successful candidate appointed. Following email receipt, there will be opportunity for further feedback.
Proudly a College of the Presbyterian Church of Queensland
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