POSITION: Head of Science.
RESPONSIBLE TO: The Principal via Head of Teaching and Learning.
REPORTS TO: Head of Teaching and Learning.
KEY FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIPS: Heads of Department, Science Teachers, Learning Enrichment Teachers, Teacher Aides.
Are you a passionate educator with a deep love of all things Science? Are you ready to lead an Science Department that empowers girls to think critically, and engage with STEM in a purposeful way?
We are seeking an exceptional Head of Science to lead a high-performing Science 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 Science 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 with a six-month probationary period..
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 Science subjects.
- Oversee budgets, staffing and resourcing for the Science 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 Science 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 STEM competitions and experiences.
- 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.
Applicants must address the following criteria in their application:
1. Demonstrated ability to:
a. Deliver outstanding Science teaching across Years 7-12, including senior Science 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.
2. A sound knowledge of the current Science curriculum, QCAA syllabus and contemporary educational trends.
3. A commitment to student wellbeing and engagement through rich learning experiences.
4. A demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional learning, including engagement with academic literature and best practice.
5. Registration with the Queensland College of Teachers.
Prospective candidates are requested to read the following documents prior to submitting an application.
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 - .
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.
- 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.
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 appointment is currently under the conditions of the Fairholme College Certified Agreement 2025.
Applications, which close on Friday 21 August 2026, should include including a cover letter and a full curriculum vitae (no longer than two A4 pages, font: Calibri, size 11) and will include the following details:
- A cover email addressing the selection criteria;
- A current CV;
- A brief statement of your educational philosophy; and
- Names and contact details of three referees, including your current or most recent employer.
- The College reserves the right to contact other persons who may have relevant knowledge of your qualifications and experience.
Submissions Due: Friday 21 August 2026
Applications to:
Mrs Colette Whell
Administration Manager
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 Science.
Apply now and help young women find their voice, and their future, through Science.
Fairholme College is committed to child safeguarding. All applicants should hold, or be in the process of obtaining, Queensland College of Teachers registration.
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 face-to-face feedback.
Proudly a College of the Presbyterian Church of Queensland
