Head of Middle School

• Full-time, fixed term for 5 years (renewable)
• Commencing January 2026
• Teaching load to be negotiated
• Download the Job and Person Specification
  • A Candidate Information Booklet is available upon request, and will outline key information about this role, and the application process*

Pembroke is seeking an exceptional educational leader to be our next Head of Middle School. This role offers the opportunity to lead more than 800 students and a dedicated team of staff across Years 7 to 10, during one of the most significant periods of adolescent development.

About the Role

At Pembroke, Middle School is a time of transformation – where students explore identity, grow in independence and develop the academic and personal foundations that shape their futures. The Head of Middle School nurtures this environment by fostering a culture of belonging, aspiration and care.

This role is ideal for a relational and future-focused leader with a strong understanding of adolescent development, proven educational leadership experience, and the vision to shape the strategic and cultural direction of the Middle Years within a unified ELC – 12 school model.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Lead the educational, cultural and strategic direction of the Middle School (Years 7-10), aligned with the School’s Vision, Values and Strategic Plan 2030.
• Foster high expectations and excellence in teaching and learning, working closely with the Dean of Studies and Dean of Learning Cultures and Innovation to ensure relevance, rigour and innovation across curriculum and pedagogy.
• Champion student wellbeing and personal growth in partnership with the Dean of Student Wellbeing and Assistant Heads of Middle School.
• Promote a positive and professional staff culture through leadership, mentoring and collaboration, ensuring clarity of purpose and shared accountability.
• Build and maintain meaningful partnerships with families, supporting a culture of transparency, trust and inclusion.
• Collaborate with the Principal, Deputy Principal, Heads of Junior and Senior School and others as a member of the Pembroke Leadership Team to ensure continuity of experience across the School.

About You

Our next leader is an individual who leads with integrity, presence and purpose – an educator who brings both clarity and compassion to the role. They believe in the transformative power of the Middle Years and understand that this stage of learning is as much about identity and belonging as it is about academic growth.

They will be highly visible, engaged and relational – trusted by students, respected by colleagues, and sought after by families as a source of calm, confidence and care. They will model professionalism, humility and high expectations in equal measure, inspiring those around them.

What You Will Bring to This Role:

• Proven leadership experience in a Middle Years or equivalent setting, with the capability to lead a large and vibrant Sub-School community.
• A deep understanding of adolescent development and the capacity to shape learning environments where young people feel known, challenged and supported.
• A collaborative approach to leadership, building strong and respectful relationships with students, staff and families.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to lead with empathy, articulate vision with clarity and navigate complex conversations with confidence.
• A strategic mindset paired with practical execution – able to set direction, manage change and deliver outcomes that reflect School priorities.
• A commitment to innovation and continuous growth across both educational and pastoral domains.
• An authentic leadership style that empowers others, builds collective capacity and fosters a culture of trust, aspiration and belonging.
• Alignment with Pembroke’s Values and a deep appreciation of co-education and diversity. 

Find Your Place at Pembroke

At Pembroke, you’ll be part of a warm and collaborative school community that values relationships, initiative and a shared commitment to learning. Whether in the classroom, on the sporting field or behind the scenes, every role contributes to shaping the rich and inclusive culture of the School. With opportunities for professional growth, a strong sense of belonging and a genuine appreciation for staff, Pembroke is a place where your work is seen, valued and celebrated.

Read more in The Heart of Pembroke – Celebrating our Staff

What We Offer:

• A vibrant, supportive and collaborative learning environment
• Access to professional learning, mentorship and leadership development
• A community that upholds academic rigour, wellbeing and personal growth
• Click here to read more about our Staff Ethos and Benefits

Further Information

All enquiries regarding this position should be directed in confidence to the Principal, Mr Mark Staker, who will personally lead the recruitment and selection process.

Mr Mark Staker
Principal, Pembroke School

Phone: +61 8 8366 6225
Email: [email protected]

*Request for Candidate Booklet: A copy of the booklet must be requested through the Office of the Principal as it outlines key information about the role.  Please note, a phone call with the Principal may be scheduled to discuss the position as part of this request.

Application Process

A complete application will include:

• A Cover Letter outlining your interest in the position and what you would bring to the role
• A detailed Statement of Educational Philosophy, with clear reference to how your philosophy aligns with the Selection Criteria and the Values of Pembroke School
• A Curriculum Vitae (Resume) including:
  • A full employment history
  • Qualifications and relevant professional learning
  • Contact details for three professional referees, one of whom must be your current Principal; referees will not be contacted without your prior consent

Pembroke School reserves the right to commence interviewing suitable candidates prior to the closing date. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.

Applications close: Wednesday, 20 August 2025 at 5:00 pm