Full Time | Senior Leadership Position
Since 1901, The Southport School has been a home away from home for thousands of young men. An Anglican day and boarding school for boys from Pre-Prep to Year 12, TSS is home to the largest boys' boarding facility in Queensland and one of the largest in the country — a community of more than 300 people, drawing boarders from regional and remote Queensland, across Australia, and internationally.
Guided by our values of Teamwork, Scholarship and Service, we are committed to providing a safe, structured and genuinely caring environment where boys are challenged and supported to become men who lead with integrity. Our boarding community sits at the heart of that mission, offering boys a true home away from home under the day-to-day leadership of our Headmaster, Deputy Masters, Dean of Boarding and Heads of House, all of whom live on campus.
The Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced, values-driven leader to take on the role of Dean of Boarding (5 year tenure) commencing in January 2027 with strategic and operational responsibility for the pastoral care, wellbeing, safety and day-to-day life of our boarding community (Years 7-12).
Reporting to the Deputy Headmaster – Head of Senior School, the Dean of Boarding will lead the Director, Assistant Director, Heads of House and boarding staff to deliver an outstanding boarding experience — one that balances genuine pastoral care with high expectations for behaviour, academic application and personal growth, consistent with the traditions and culture of a leading GPS boarding school.
This is a live-in leadership position, requiring an individual of exceptional character who is willing to be a highly visible, hands-on presence within the boarding community.
Key Responsibilities
- People Leadership and Capability Development
- Strategic and Operational Leadership
- Boarding Growth, Marketing and Community Engagement
- Culture, Conduct and Student Development Leadership
- Stakeholder Relationships and Partnerships
Please view our Candidate Recruitment Pack for a full position description.
About You
You will bring:
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A track record of developing and delivering strategic marketing and enrolment initiatives aligned with a boarding ethos
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Proven experience building, leading and managing a cohesive, engaged boarding team
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A strong grasp of effective pastoral care practice and support systems within a boarding context
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A genuine commitment to fostering positive relationships across students, staff and the wider school community
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage confidently across all levels of the school community
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A commitment to ongoing professional learning in boarding practice (e.g. ABSA courses, conferences and professional learning communities)
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Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
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Sound judgement and problem-solving ability, with the flexibility to adapt to the changing operational needs of different department
- The ability to work independently as well as collaboratively across multiple teams and in support of senior leadership
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Willingness to reside on campus and to travel as required for tours
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Teaching Degree and Experience and QCT Registration (or eligibility to obtain registration)
Why Join Us?
- A live-in position within a highly regarded, well-resourced boarding community
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The opportunity to lead a passionate and experienced boarding team
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Ongoing professional development and support
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A collegiate senior leadership team and a school deeply invested in the wellbeing of its people
Competitive remuneration, reflective of the seniority of the role, plus accommodation
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Successful candidates will be willing to support the Anglican Code of Conduct and Ethos of the School. Applicants must hold or be eligible to hold a working with children Exemption Blue Card, Drivers Licence, Pool Lifeguard qualifications and current First Aid/CPR as well as a recent criminal history check.
How to Apply
Only applications submitted online will be considered and applications close 10am 10 August 2026. Please review our Candidate Information Pack for application instructions. Please connect with Mandy Rice, People and Culture Manager via [email protected] or 07 55319950 for a confidential discussion prior to application.
