About the Opportunity:

John Paul College is seeking an exceptional educational leader to join our Secondary School as Dean of Students. This is a unique opportunity to lead the pastoral care and student wellbeing agenda, shaping a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can thrive.

As a key member of the Secondary School Leadership Team, you will provide strategic leadership in student welfare, behaviour management, child protection, and the development of programs that support student growth from Year 7 to Year 12.

The Dean of Students – Secondary leads with vision, purpose, and a deep commitment to student wellbeing. You will be responsible for:

• Leading the development and delivery of the Academic Welfare Program, ensuring continuity and responsiveness across all year levels.
• Overseeing student welfare programs and guiding Heads of Year and Counsellors to deliver initiative-taking and responsive support for individuals and groups.
• Leading the College's behaviour and positive engagement framework, aligned with restorative, strengths-based and reflective practices.
• Championing child protection across the Secondary School, including serving as a Student Protection Officer and ensuring compliance with mandatory reporting legislation.
• Driving student leadership development and opportunities across Years 7–12, including leading the Year 11 student leadership process.
• Overseeing Health Centre operations, nursing staff, and emergency response coordination.
• Managing student orientation, enrolment transitions, and pathway planning in collaboration with the Dean of Studies.
• Leading the Head of Year Forum and building the capacity of pastoral leaders through professional development and mentoring.

This is a highly relational and visible leadership role suited to an inspiring educator who can build trust, lead with compassion, and create a culture where every student belongs.

A copy of the full position description is available here.

What You’ll Bring:

We are looking for a secondary school educational leader with:

• Proven success in a senior student welfare or pastoral leadership role, with demonstrated impact on student wellbeing and engagement.
• Deep knowledge of contemporary student welfare frameworks, evidence-based interventions, and pastoral care best practice.
• Experience leading child protection initiatives and a thorough understanding of mandatory reporting requirements and legislative compliance.
• A track record of developing and leading pastoral teams, including Heads of Year and counselling staff.
• Sound professional judgment and composure when managing sensitive, high-stakes or crisis situations.
• Cultural competence and sensitivity when working with students and families from diverse backgrounds.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and relational leadership skills.
• A commitment to upholding the College's core values of mutual respect, integrity, compassion, and excellence.

You will need to have:

• Current QCT registration and relevant teaching qualifications (master’s degree in education or related field preferred).
• Current First Aid certification.
• Eligibility to work in Australia.
• Willingness to undergo employment screening and meet child safety legislative requirements.

Why Join John Paul College?

John Paul College is a leading independent co-educational school in Queensland, known for its commitment to innovation, inclusive learning, and academic excellence.

Having been awarded in 2025 for the fifth consecutive year as Employer of Choice, we offer:

• A vibrant and collaborative professional environment.
• Exceptional facilities and resources.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• A values-based community where every staff member can thrive.

How to Apply:

If you are a compassionate leader with a passion for student wellbeing and a desire to make a real difference in young people's lives, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Applications can be submitted by clicking “Apply” (Below)

To help us understand your strengths and career goals, please include:

• A detailed cover letter addressed to Mr Jacob Elms, Deputy Principal – Head of Secondary School which includes
  • A brief response to the selection criteria detailed in the position description, and
  • An outline of how you will Ignite Ambition in the Dean of Students Secondary role at John Paul College.
• Your current resume
• The contact details of at least two professional referees

Applications for this role will close at 11:59pm on 30 January 2026.

John Paul College is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.