The Rockhampton Grammar School are seeking a dynamic and passionate leader for the position of Head of Vocational Education and Careers. This highly impactful role will shape the educational pathways of our secondary school students, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and industry experiences required to make informed decisions about their futures.

Commencement is as soon as possible as negotiated with the successful candidate.

The Rockhampton Grammar School was founded in 1881 and is an independent co-educational day and boarding school, educating and caring for students from Prep to Year 12, as well as the Early Learning Years and is Queensland’s largest boarding school. The Rockhampton Grammar School has achieved great success in the academic, cultural, sporting and vocational fields over the past 144 years. The School has a total enrolment of over 1,500 (Prep to Year 12) students who are exposed to our broad curriculum, giving effect to our commitment of Grow in Character and Scholarship.

As part of our School, we provide a supportive, flexible working environment where care for all our staff is an important part of our ethos. We employ motivated people who want to work together to produce excellent outcomes for our staff and students. Our staff are recognised as being central to achieving our mission.

At The Rockhampton Grammar School, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and dynamic environment where students thrive both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities. Join us at The Rockhampton Grammar School and be a part of a vibrant community dedicated to excellence in education! The School values co-curricular involvement and provide a wide variety of opportunities for staff in this regard.

POSITION TITLE: Head of Vocational Education Training and Careers

DEPARTMENT: Secondary

CLASSIFICATION: Permanent, Full-Time, Head of Department 3A

REPORTS TO: Head of Secondary School (Students)

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Head of Vocational Education, Training and Careers (HOD VETC) plays a pivotal role in shaping students’ pathways beyond school, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge, skills and experiences necessary to make informed decisions about their future. With a deep understanding of the evolving world of work, the HOD VETC will foster student engagement in career exploration, employability skill development and vocational education opportunities that align with industry needs and post-school aspirations.

As a key leader within the Secondary School, the HOD VETC is responsible for the design, development and delivery of Vocational Education and Training (VET) programmes, the Work Experience programme and the Careers programme. The role requires strategic oversight, collaboration and innovation to ensure that students receive high-quality vocational education, industry-linked experiences and well-rounded career guidance.

The HOD VETC will ensure that all programmes and courses adhere to rigorous internal and external quality assurance processes, including annual reviews and modifications to align with evolving industry and educational standards.

This is a highly collaborative and future-focused leadership role, requiring a dynamic individual who is committed to enhancing student outcomes, strengthening school-industry partnerships, and shaping career readiness across the school community.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Vocational Education and Training (VET) Programme

The HOD VETC will provide strategic leadership and oversight for the School’s VET programme, ensuring that students receive high-quality vocational education and industry-aligned training opportunities. Key responsibilities include:

• Meeting regularly (at least once per term) with each VET teacher to ensure they are informed about changes in VET requirements, currency, and legislative updates.
• Ensuring the School’s RTO (Registered Training Organisation) remains compliant with all regulatory and reporting requirements.
• Liaising with partner RTOs to deliver quality Certificate courses and ensuring that all external RTOs maintain accreditation in line with the School’s needs.
• Collaborating with the relevant stakeholders to develop and implement a whole-school approach to alternative education pathways, positioning VET as a valued and viable post-school option.
• Promoting VET pathways and student success stories through media, School publications and external community engagement.

2. Work Experience Programme

The HOD VETC will plan, manage and oversee the Work Experience Programme, ensuring that students gain relevant, meaningful and structured industry experiences. Key duties include:

• Leading the School’s Work Experience Programme, ensuring students gain valuable industry exposure and relevant hands-on experience.
• Conducting pre-placement interviews with students to discuss their career interests, preferred industries, availability and expectations.
• Sourcing, vetting and organising suitable workplaces that align with student goals and industry standards.
• Preparing all required documentation, including Work Cover insurance paperwork and employer agreements.
• Monitoring student progress and following up with employers and students to gather evaluations, feedback and reflections.
• Preparing and issuing individual Letters of Appreciation and Certificates of Recognition for participating employers.
• Supervising and coordinating staff involvement in the Work Experience Programme, ensuring effective implementation.

3. Careers Programme

The HOD VETC will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive Careers Programme for all Secondary School students (Years 7–12), ensuring they are well-informed and equipped to make confident post-school choices. Responsibilities include:

• Organising career events, guest speakers and student interviews with key organisations such as CES, ATO, Police, Defence Forces, universities, residential colleges, TAFE, agricultural colleges, performing arts colleges and professional bodies.
• Marketing career and study opportunities to senior students, including exchange programs, gap years and scholarship applications.
• Providing individual career counselling sessions for students and parents, guiding them on post-school pathways, employability skills and tertiary education options.
• Advising and assisting students with QTAC and other university applications, ensuring students and parents are well-informed about application processes, deadlines and preferences.
• Tracking student post-school destinations, compiling an annual summary report on university acceptances, job market success and alternative pathways for recent graduates (Interim Report in January, Final Report in February).
• Managing and updating scholarship information, ensuring students and parents have access to current funding opportunities.
• Designing and implementing a structured Careers Programme from Year 7 to Year 12

4. Administration & Organisation

The HOD VETC will oversee the management and administration of students enrolled in the School’s Curriculum Plus (CP) Programme, including School-Based Trainees (SATs), Education and Training Reform (ETRF) students, and students undertaking short courses. Key tasks include:

• Meeting with students and parents to explain the process, requirements, and benefits of SATs and ETRF programmes.
• Engaging with employers to initiate and facilitate new SAT placements.
• Attending SAT sign-ups to ensure smooth enrolment and compliance with training requirements.
• Attending RTO inductions to assist in the development of suitable training plans.
• Conducting regular meetings with employers and RTOs to oversee and manage individual SAT programmes.
• Sourcing and coordinating exclusive short courses for RGS students to enhance their employability skills and industry preparedness.
• Providing pastoral care and academic support to students, ensuring they remain on track with school, training and work commitments.
• Representing the School at VET and SAT networking meetings and events to maintain and expand industry partnerships.
• Preparing and submitting VET Seed Funding Applications to AISQ, as well as annual VET Funding Applications to government agencies.
• Coordinating Curriculum Plus Week for students, including planning external workshops, guest speakers and industry-specific training sessions.
• Maintaining accurate records of CP student participation and absenteeism, reporting weekly updates to key stakeholders.
• Managing TAC internal audit requirements and external government compliance audits for all Certificate courses.
• Preparing paperwork and compliance reports to maintain RTO registration and funding eligibility.
• Submitting VET funding applications as opportunities arise.
• Assisting students with job readiness, including resume writing, interview preparation, and aptitude testing.
• Providing frequent updates to Years 10–12 students about job opportunities, school-based apprenticeships, and full-time employment openings, via email, school notices, and newsletters.

6. Leadership and Departmental Responsibilities

The HOD VETC will provide departmental leadership by:

• Communicating a clear vision for Vocational Education and Careers that aligns with the School’s strategic direction.
• Leading and managing curriculum development and pedagogical approaches within the Department.
• Supporting pastoral care initiatives and ensuring that staff contribute to student wellbeing.
• Recruiting, mentoring, and managing VET teaching staff, ensuring ongoing professional development and compliance with industry standards.
• Administering departmental budgeting, assessment procedures, reporting, and curriculum compliance.
• Contributing to pre-service teacher training and publishing articles to promote best practices in VET education.
• Demonstrating a commitment to ongoing professional learning and development.

7. Teaching & Professional Responsibilities (0.2 teaching load)

As a teacher, the HOD VETC is expected to:

• Design and implement engaging curriculum programmes in alignment with the School’s Learning Framework.
• Continuously reflect on teaching practices and engage in the School’s Professional Learning Programme.
• Collaborate with colleagues to enhance student learning experiences.
• Communicate effectively with students, parents and school leadership regarding student progress.
• Maintain accurate student records and meet all reporting deadlines.

N.B This position description contains the most important duties and tasks regarding the job to be done. It is not an exclusive/exhaustive list.

REQUIRED LICENCES/CERTIFICATES

• Registered with Queensland College of Teachers (QCT).
• Working with Children Check;
• Police Check

SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

The School takes child protection seriously, and as a staff member or volunteer of The Rockhampton Grammar School, you are required to meet the behaviour standards outlined in our Practice and Behaviour Guidelines. You will receive a copy of these guidelines as part of the induction process.

Therefore, as a part of your duties and responsibilities, you are also required to:

• Provide a welcoming and safe environment for children and young people;
• Promote the safety and wellbeing of children and young people to whom we provide services;
• Ensure that your interactions with children and young people are positive and safe;
• Provide adequate care and supervision of children and young people in your charge;
• Act as a positive role model for children and young people;
• Report any suspicions, concerns, allegations or disclosures of alleged abuse to management;
• Maintain valid “working with children” documentation;
• Undergo periodic “national criminal history record” checks;
• Report to management any criminal charges or convictions you receive during the course of your employment that may indicate a possible risk to children and young people.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

The successful applicant will be subject to a “Working with Children Check and Criminal Records Check” where applicable. The School undertakes several screening processes to ensure the appropriate protection of children and young people in its care. This includes reference checks, identity checks, qualification check and professional registration checks.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply for this position - please 'apply now' by emailing [email protected]

Please submit the following compulsory items:

• Cover Letter, indicating why you are applying for this position and detailing your experience;
• Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae with the contact details of two work related referees;
• RGS Application for Employment Form.
  

Applications are encouraged to be submitted as soon as possible to [email protected] and will be reviewed as they are received. However, must be submitted no later than 4:00pm, Friday 4th April 2025.

Enquiries should be directed to Mrs Alison Wright (Head of Secondary School - Students) on 07 4936 0721.

*Note: only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

*Applications will be reviewed as they are received and RGS reserves the right to close applications early should a suitable candidate be found.

*The Rockhampton Grammar School reserves the right to amend this Position Description at its discretion in accordance with any Safeguarding of Children, legislative and/or operational requirements.