Dean of Activities

Somerset College is seeking a strategic senior leader to step into the role of Dean of Activities. As a key member of the College Leadership Team, you will play a major role in shaping the student experience by driving participation, character development and excellence across our sport, performing arts, outdoor education and co‑curricular programs. This is a high‑impact role where your leadership will directly influence student engagement, culture, and the breadth of opportunities available beyond the classroom.

The Opportunity As Dean of Activities, you will oversee a broad and talented team spanning Sport, Performing Arts, Outdoor Education, Aquatics, Athletic Development, the Activities Hub and co‑curricular clubs. You will guide strategic direction, ensure operational excellence, and champion innovation in line with College values of Character and Conscience.

This role is ideal for a visionary leader who thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys building high‑performing teams. You will contribute at a whole‑school level, playing an important part in strategic planning, governance, risk management and initiatives that elevate student wellbeing, growth and achievement.

Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership and Innovation Provide strategic guidance and leadership across sport, cultural, outdoor education and co‑curricular programs.

Contribute actively to College strategy, vision and leadership decision‑making.

Oversee departmental budgets, capital project input and fiscal accountability.

Build a culture of continuous improvement, reflection and performance excellence.

Program and Operational Management Lead the delivery of Junior and Senior School activity programs across sport, performing arts, outdoor education, clubs and tours.

Oversee major College events including carnivals, camps, performances, tours and competitions.

Maintain strong communication, reporting and stakeholder engagement across all programs.

Ensure the effective management and safe operation of activity‑related facilities and precincts.

Lead and mentor a diverse team including Directors, Coordinators and administrative staff.

Oversee appointments, staffing structures, performance development and wellbeing.

Promote effective communication, collaboration and professional growth across the department.

Manage conduct, performance matters and workforce planning in partnership with People and Culture.

Compliance, Risk and Safety Ensure policy, procedure and regulatory compliance across all programs.

Oversee risk management for camps, carnivals, tours, competitions and events.

Support staff and student safety through WHS and behavioural expectations frameworks.

Maintain departmental policies as part of a best‑practice operational environment.

Student Engagement and Achievement Foster high levels of student participation across competitive, non‑competitive and recreational activities.

Support talent development pathways, including athlete excellence and elite programme access.

Build partnerships with sporting bodies, industry groups and education providers.

Celebrate student achievement through events, awards and recognition frameworks.

About You You are an accomplished leader with demonstrated experience overseeing sport, cultural, outdoor education or co‑curricular programmes within a school or comparable environment. You thrive on inspiring others, building relationships and developing teams. You bring:

• Exceptional leadership, management, organisational and relational skills.

• Strong strategic capability with a focus on outcomes, culture and continuous improvement.

• Experience managing budgets, risk, compliance and complex operations.

The ability to work collaboratively and influence across diverse stakeholder groups.

Strong communication skills and a visible, engaging leadership style.

Integrity, discretion, professionalism and a commitment to student wellbeing and holistic education.

A current Working with Children Blue Card and First Aid certification (mandatory).

Teaching qualifications and QCT registration (highly regarded but not essential).

We Offer

Competitive Remuneration

– be rewarded with competitive pay and entitlements

Fantastic Perks

– enjoy onsite gym, barista, catering services and parking access

Growth Opportunity

– showcase and develop skills collaborating with a talented team

Community Culture

– join a learning culture enriched by values of respect and integrity

Ideal Gold Coast Location

– experience our vibrant city with natural beauty, pristine coastline and breathtaking wilderness

About Us Somerset College is one of Australia’s leading co‑educational independent schools, educating over 1,700 students from Pre‑Prep to Year 12. Nestled in the heart of the Gold Coast on a stunning 22‑hectare campus in Mudgeeraba, we are proud of our global outlook, academic excellence, and commitment to student success.

Apply Now To apply, please submit via SEEK: ✅

Your resume

(max. 5 pages), including 3 professional referees ✅

A cover letter

(max. 3 pages) outlining your interest in the role and addressing what you bring to the position against the suitability criteria detailed in the position prospectus and position description

Learn more about Somerset College and find a

Position Prospectus

and

Position Description

at

www.somerset.qld.edu.au

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