Organisation: Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia

Reporting to: Chief Executive Officer

Hours: Full time (38 hours per week) or part time by negotiation

Location: AHISA National Office, U123/20 Anzac Park, Campbell ACT/WFH

Commencement date: By negotiation

About AHISA

The Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia (AHISA) is the national professional body representing principals of over 480 independent schools, educating around 485,000 students across Australia. Established in 1985, AHISA is dedicated to promoting educational excellence and student wellbeing by supporting school leaders through professional learning, mentorship, and advocacy. It provides a strong collegial network, represents members in national education policy discussions, and fosters regional collaboration through its six state and territory branches.

The Position

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer and working collaboratively with the Communications Coordinator and National Office team, the Education Editor & Researcher plays a pivotal role in shaping AHISA’s educational voice and thought leadership. The role combines editorial and research responsibilities, ensuring high-quality, relevant content is developed and published across AHISA’s platforms.

A key responsibility is the end-to-end management of AHISA’s biannual Independence journal. The role also includes researching and developing original educational content for AHISA’s members, including articles, newsletters, and other written materials.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Independence Journal

Plan, coordinate, and produce two editions annually (May and October) of Independence, AHISA’s professional journal.

Coordinate, develop and edit high-quality content for each journal edition, including articles, illustrations, interviews and editorials.

Ensure all publishing rights are secured, including copyright and moral rights waivers where required.

Manage the editorial process from content creation to final proofreading, ensuring accuracy, clarity and consistency.

Oversee journal production and design in collaboration with the publisher and designer to ensure timely publication.

Coordinate digital distribution and support promotion and engagement by preparing journal-related content for AHISA’s social media and e-bulletins.

Liaise with the Independence editorial sub-committee and provide reports on journal activity to AHISA’s Board.

Research and Educational Writing

Conducting selected research on topics, trends, and best practices relevant to educational leadership and the independent sector

Create high-quality written content such as articles, newsletters, reports and briefing notes for member communications and external publications

Maintain accuracy, relevance and readability in all written material, aligned with AHISA’s voice and standards

Ensure all research adheres to ethical and professional standards

Skills and Experience

Proven experience as an editor

Exceptional communication skills including verbal, written, editing, and proofreading skills

Demonstrated research skills and the ability to analyse and interpret data

Familiarity with research methodologies and ethical practices

Knowledge of Australia’s education landscape, especially the independent school sector

Collaborative mindset and flexibility to support AHISA’s broader communication needs

Excellent attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure

Strong organisational and project management capabilities

Qualifications

Degree(s) in journalism, communications, English, education or a related field is highly desirable

A qualification or experience in an educational environment is highly regarded

Other requirements

Occasional travel may be required to attend AHISA Conferences and Events

Willingness to undergo a criminal record check

Applications

To apply, please submit a single PDF (no more than five pages) to the AHISA CEO ([email protected]) including:

Cover letter addressing your suitability against the key duties, responsibilities, skills and experience outlined in the position description

Curriculum Vitae with contact details of two referees

Applications close 5pm (AEST) Friday 1 August 2025.