Head of Department - Science

 Apply now for a rare opportunity to join the Gold Coast’s leading Independent and high performing International Baccalaureate (IB) school as Head of Department – Science at Somerset College

Ideally located on the Gold Coast, this position of added responsibility drives the success of Science department education, operations and outcomes and has become vacant for the first time in 11 years with the current incumbent’s impending retirement. 

This is a rare opportunity for an experienced teacher and educational leader to:

• Make a difference leading Science education across the College
• Lead and develop a talented teaching team
• Manage departmental operations including the writing and evaluation of Science curriculum
• Oversee the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle School programme
• Teach at a senior level across Physics, Chemistry, Biology and / or Psychology

Ideally the preferred applicant will be available to commence in term 2, 2024; however, for the right candidate a capacity to commence by term 3 may be negotiable. 

Somerset College stands as one of Australia's leading independent schools catering for over 1700 co-educational students from Pre-Prep to Year 12. Established in 1983 and located in the heart of the Gold Coast, our impressive facilities occupy approximately 22 hectares in Mudgeeraba. Our success has been built by a talented and committed workforce underpinned by strong support from parents and the community. Somerset College remains consistently among the highest performing QCAA schools in Queensland.

The Somerset Experience includes a strong commitment to developing engaged global citizens, aspiring to excellence, demonstrating integrity, and valuing difference.  As an International Baccalaureate World School, Somerset has built an esteemed position in education through our global outlook and our commitment to encouraging the fulfillment of individual potential in academia, sport, creative, extracurricular, and personal pursuits.

We offer:

• Competitive salaries and wages
• First class modern facilities
• Dynamic learning environment with well-resourced classrooms
• An ideal Gold Coast location
• Onsite gym, barista, parking and catering services
• A commitment to professional development
• Employee Assistance and wellbeing programs
• A quality team and work culture

 You will bring:

• Strong working knowledge of the Science curriculum with relevant qualifications
• Leadership experience in a similar role (or higher) within an educational setting
• The ability to plan and deliver quality teaching and student-focused learning outcomes
• Experience in International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme well regarded.
• Experience teaching at a senior level across Physics, Chemistry, Biology and / or Psychology
• Ability to foster innovation, creativity, and a passion for learning within students.
• A commitment to encourage excellence in academics, co-curricular, personal development and an educational journey that empowers personal student successes.
• High standards of professionalism, personal integrity, discretion, and resilience
• Ability to effectively corroborate, interact and maintain professional relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and the broader College community
• A genuine commitment to holistic student education, and physical, social, and emotional wellbeing to prepare student to be informed global citizens
• Queensland College of Teachers Registration, First Aid and CPR certification
• Suitable physical fitness to perform manual tasks, outdoor duties and classroom activities

Submit your application via SEEK:  Include a resume (maximum 5 pages with 3 referee contact details listed, one of which should be a recent supervisor), and a cover letter outlining your suitability for this role (maximum 1 page).  Please ensure to include your Queensland Teacher Registration number.

Applications should be submitted via SEEK by 9.00am Monday 19 February 2024

To learn more about Somerset College and view a position description, visit www.somerset.qld.edu.au Please direct position enquiries to [email protected]

Proudly an equal opportunity employer, we embrace a workplace underpinned by shared ethos and values that shape our actions and behaviours.