Dean of Boarding

Position Overview

The Southport School, a prominent Anglican day and boarding institution for boys from Pre-Prep to Year 12 based in Queensland, is seeking a dedicated Dean of Boarding. Established in 1901, the school hosts Queensland's largest boys' boarding community with over 300 residents from regional, national, and international backgrounds. This full-time senior leadership role requires the successful candidate to live on campus and assume a highly visible leadership position within the boarding community, beginning January 2027 for a five-year tenure.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational oversight for the pastoral care, wellbeing, safety, and daily life of boarders in Years 7 through 12.
• Lead the Director, Assistant Director, Heads of House, and boarding staff to foster a positive boarding experience balancing pastoral care with academic and behavioral expectations aligned with the school's culture and GPS traditions.
• Direct personnel leadership and foster capability development within the boarding team.
• Manage growth initiatives, marketing strategies, and community engagement for boarding.
• Champion culture, conduct, and personal development efforts among students.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders and partners.

Candidate Profile

• Demonstrated success in designing and implementing enrollment and marketing strategies consistent with a boarding ethos.
• Proven ability to build, guide, and motivate a cohesive and engaged boarding team.
• Thorough understanding of effective pastoral care systems within a boarding environment.
• Commitment to nurturing positive relationships across students, staff, and the wider school community.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills suitable for engaging stakeholders at all levels.
• Dedication to continuous professional development in boarding, such as participation in ABSA courses and professional networks.
• Strong organizational aptitude with the capability to manage multiple priorities and adhere to deadlines.
• Sound judgment, problem-solving expertise, and adaptability to evolving departmental needs.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within senior leadership frameworks.
• Willingness to reside on campus and travel for school tours as necessary.
• Possession of a teaching degree, teaching experience, and Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) registration or eligibility.

Benefits and Conditions

• Live-in opportunity within a well-established and resourced boarding community.
• Leadership of a committed and experienced boarding staff.
• Access to ongoing professional development and institutional support.
• Collaborative senior leadership environment within a school prioritizing wellbeing.
• Competitive remuneration commensurate with seniority, including accommodation provision.
• Support for the Anglican Code of Conduct and School Ethos is expected.
• Mandatory compliance with requirements such as holding or eligibility for a Working with Children Exemption Blue Card, valid driver’s license, Pool Lifeguard qualifications, current First Aid/CPR certification, and recent criminal history check.