Head of Department (Curriculum) - New special school in Ipswich West

An exciting opportunity exists for a The Head of Department (Curriculum), you will play a pivotal role in establishing the teaching and learning foundations of our new primary special school, opening in 2027. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced and innovative curriculum leader to help shape a new school from the ground up and influence the learning experiences of students from the very beginning.

Working as a key member of the Foundation Leadership Team, the Head of Department (Curriculum) will lead the development and implementation of high-quality, evidence-informed curriculum, pedagogy, assessment and moderation practices that maintain high expectations for every student. This is a temporary full-time position until 06 October 2027, unless otherwise determined.

About the Department of Education:

Working for the Queensland Department of Education means joining an organisation that values its people and promotes leadership and innovation. Be part of an environment that respects professionalism and diversity, offers training and development opportunities and embraces flexible careers and work-life balance. Find out more about working with us.

About the Role:

The successful applicant will have a strong understanding of the Australian Curriculum and contemporary approaches to curriculum implementation for students with disability. They will be able to support teachers to make purposeful adjustments while ensuring students have access to rigorous, age-appropriate and meaningful learning.

Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

• Leading the development and implementation of the school's curriculum framework and whole-school curriculum planning processes.
• Building teacher capability in curriculum, pedagogy, assessment and differentiation.
• Establishing consistent approaches to planning, moderation, data use and monitoring student progress.
• Promoting evidence-informed practices, including explicit teaching and high-impact teaching strategies.
• Supporting the development of a strong culture of collaboration, professional learning and collective responsibility for student outcomes.
• Working alongside the Principal, Deputy Principal and Foundation Leadership Team to establish the school's strategic direction, culture and ways of working.
• Developing curriculum systems and processes that are sustainable as the school grows from Prep-Year 2 in 2027 to a full primary special school.
• Working collaboratively with our co-located school, Leichhardt State School, to identify opportunities for curriculum collaboration, professional learning and inclusive educational experiences.

This position would suit a leader who is strategic, highly collaborative, organised and improvement focused, with the ability to translate curriculum expectations into effective classroom practice. Importantly, we are seeking someone who believes deeply in the capability of students with disability and is committed to ensuring that adjustments provide access to learning without lowering expectations.

As a foundation leadership position, this is an exciting opportunity to do more than step into an established role. The successful applicant will help build the systems, culture and curriculum approach of a new school, leaving a lasting professional legacy for students, families and staff.

Please refer to the attached role description for any mandatory requirements for this position. 

How to apply:

• Please submit a brief resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should have an understanding of your relevant work history); and
• A 2-page written statement in response to the attached role description.

We welcome all applicants to share any support needed to ensure our recruitment process is inclusive. 

Applications remain current for 12 months from the closing date and may be considered for appointment to identical or similar vacancies within the Department. 

Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.