Head of Department - Health and Physical Education - Mackay State High School

Job Reference QLD/CQR683209/26P
Closing date April 8, 2026
Location Mackay region
Status Permanent
Contact 07 4957 9179

About this job

About Us:

Mackay State High School welcomed its first cohort of students on 1st January 1912. It was one of the first state high schools opened in Queensland and recognized the growth that was taking place in Mackay and the Pioneer Valley. Since that time, it has continued to develop with the town, establishing a positive and rich reputation. Over the past 108 years many students have graduated to become leaders within the Mackay District and broader community - a history that we are proud of.
Mackay State High School is proud to be a large, diverse school community and has grown to more than 1150 students and staff. Our mission is to provide educational excellence and diverse pathways for students, based on a culture of pride, inclusion and high expectations. Our committed and caring staff focus on developing individual students to attain their full potential in academic, sporting, cultural and arts fields.

About the Role:

Mackay State High School is seeking a dedicated and experienced leader to play a key role in driving the development and delivery of our Health and Physical Education curriculum. This position has a strong focus on innovative pedagogy, effective moderation practices, high-quality assessment, and the achievement of exceptional student outcomes.
The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of engaging pedagogical practices that promote student achievement and create positive learning environments. They will also build and maintain strong professional relationships with staff, students, parents, and the wider community.
With responsibility for leading a large and dynamic team, the successful applicant will provide clear direction, foster collaboration, and support a unified approach to achieving both educational and sporting outcomes. Central to this role is the ability to collaboratively lead and support the delivery of the school's five Sporting Academy programs, ensuring strong alignment between curriculum, high-performance pathways, and student engagement in sport. In addition, the role includes oversight of whole-school sporting events, including the organisation and leadership of major carnivals and inter-house competitions that contribute to the vibrant culture of Mackay State High School.

Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

  • Lead the department in developing and committing to a shared, future-focused educational vision that prioritises high-quality learning outcomes for all students.
  • Embed inclusive, socially just practices while building strong partnerships with students, families, agencies, and the wider community.
  • Set and uphold high expectations for student achievement and staff performance.
  • Engage in ongoing professional learning and apply a strong understanding of relevant legislation and policies.
  • Strategically manage human, financial, facility, and curriculum resources to achieve departmental goals.

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 previous work history); and
  • A 2-pg response to the How you will be Assessed section of 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.