Head of Boarding – Healesville

About Us

Located on a beautiful 136-acre property in the Yarra Valley, just 60 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, Worawa Aboriginal College is a boarding school for Aboriginal girls in their secondary years of schooling. As an Aboriginal initiative, Worawa is an Independent school, owned and governed by Aboriginal people, and operates on a philosophy of ‘Walking Together to Make a Difference.’

Worawa was established to respond to the unique needs of Aboriginal adolescents and the challenges they face in mainstream educational systems. The diversity of Aboriginal Australia is reflected in our student population, drawn from communities across the country. We offer a holistic education model that integrates Education, Culture, and Wellbeing to support each student’s academic and personal growth.

The Role

Reporting to the Head of College Operations, Worawa are seeking a dedicated and experienced Head of Boarding to lead our boarding program, providing a warm, caring, and safe environment for our students. You will oversee the Boarding team, ensure the wellbeing of our boarders, and foster a positive, culturally respectful atmosphere. As the primary point of contact for families, you will also be responsible for regular communication with parents and guardians, ensuring they are well-informed about their child’s progress and wellbeing.

This is a residential position, and the Head of Boarding will reside on-site from Sunday to Thursday during school terms, with private ensuited accommodation and all meals provided while on shift. The Head of Boarding will be responsible for overnight supervision and must be available for after-hours emergencies, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all boarders.

The remuneration package may include housing or allowances, subject to negotiation, availability, and the successful candidate’s circumstances.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the boarding program, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of students.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with boarders and their families, providing regular updates on student wellbeing.
• Ensure the consistent implementation of boarding house rules and policies, promoting high standards of behaviour.
• Develop and deliver a variety of after-school and weekend activities that foster students’ personal, social, and cultural development.
• Collaborate with staff to create a cohesive, high-performing team, providing mentorship and support to ensure professional growth.
• Ensure compliance with child safety and work health and safety procedures, conducting regular risk assessments and overseeing the safety of the Boarding House.
• Participate actively in student recruitment, working with the College leadership and community stakeholders to promote the boarding program.

About You

• Proven leadership and management experience in a residential or boarding setting.
• Strong understanding of Aboriginal cultures and the importance of cultural safety in an educational environment.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with experience managing relationships with students, families, and community stakeholders.
• A solid understanding of child safety regulations and experience in behaviour management.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a diverse team and foster a positive, supportive environment for staff and students.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and after-hours as required.

Qualification

• Bachelor of Social Science (Youth Work, Indigenous Studies), Diploma of Community Services (Youth Work, Residential Care), or equivalent experience.
• Current Working with Children Check and National Criminal History Check.
• First Aid certification and anaphylaxis awareness or willingness to obtain upon employment.
• A current Victorian Driver’s License with a willingness to complete Safe Driving Behaviours Training.
• Indigenous Cultural Awareness Training and Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) preferred.

At Worawa Aboriginal College, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young Aboriginal women. We offer a supportive and culturally rich working environment where your leadership will help shape the future of our students.

Worawa Aboriginal College is an equal opportunity employer, has a commitment to child safety and has zero-tolerance for child abuse.
To discuss this role in more detail please contact [email protected] using the subject line: Head of Boarding – Healesville enquiry via EthicalJobs.