Description:
Department for EducationJob reference: 668065
Location: 5001 - ADELAIDE
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone
Why work with us:
Every child and young person deserves a great education.
We have a strategy that aims to unlock every child’s potential now and into the future, one that in partnership with learners, students, parents, and the wider South Australian community will build a world-leading public education system. One that is equitable and prioritises learning and wellbeing.
Together we will make our education system the best it can be.
When our children and young people thrive, so do our communities and our state.
About the role:
The Director of Attendance strategically leads the development and implementation of policies, programs, services, and reforms designed to optimise regular attendance and meaningful engagement for all students. This role encompasses both personalised intervention in individual and targeted cases, as well as broader systemic initiatives that elevate attendance rates across the educational landscape.
Within the Support and Inclusion Division, we maintain an unwavering focus on inclusion, wellbeing, engagement, and attendance, creating environments where every child and young person can flourish academically and personally in their local school or preschool. This vision is anchored in cultural responsiveness, creating an environment where Aboriginal learners, community members, and staff flourish within a culturally affirming, secure, and equitable space.
The Division is focused on developing consistent, transparent and evidence-based offering in support of its objectives. The Director of Attendance will develop and drive reform projects that cross directorate and divisional boundaries which aim to better support schools and families to ensure that students attend school regularly. It will engage in strategic design, sequencing, monitoring and change management, as well as delivery of project elements.
About you:
- Demonstrated experience in leading the design and implementation of policies and services, including the application of best-practice system design methodologies.
- Proven experience in driving successful change management initiatives, with a strong focus on effective communication and stakeholder engagement.
- Proven ability to engage and collaborate with senior-level stakeholders to develop shared objectives, navigate differing perspectives, and build consensus both within and outside the department.
- Promote a culturally inclusive workplace and commitment to ongoing reflection and development of personal cultural awareness and inclusive practices.
- High-level understanding of the social, legal and financial frameworks governing public education.
- Demonstrated knowledge and commitment to promoting and creating a safe and inclusive work environment, and the requirements of Equal Opportunity and Work Health and Safety legislation.
Essential qualifications and competencies:
- An appropriate tertiary qualification including post-graduate qualifications in an appropriate discipline desirable or relevant experience.
- Experience leading in a large and complex organisation at an executive level, ensuring the translation of priorities into executed deliverables.
What you will get in return:
- A three-year executive contract.
- Lead strategy and business outcomes within one of SA’s biggest departments
- Be a part of a forward-thinking and dynamic team and enjoy a supportive and collaborative work environment.
Special Conditions:
The successful applicant is required to gain a Department for Human Services (DHS) working with children check (WWCC) prior to being employed which is required to be renewed every five years before expiry. The incumbent will be required to undertake RRHAN –EC (Responding to Risks of Harm, Abuse and Neglect - Education Care) Facilitator Lead (Masterclass) extended course or the online (Fundamentals) course which will be required to be updated every three years.
For all other Special Conditions please refer to the attached Position Description.
Enquiries:
Enquiries can be directed to Darren Humphrys via email: Darren.Humphrys@sa.gov.au
Application Instructions:
Applications should be made through the IWorkForSA website.
Applicants are required to submit a CV and a cover letter, outlining their suitability against the position description.
People of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent and/or those who have a disability are strongly encouraged to apply.
Additional Note:
This is a full-time contract role (1.0 FTE), initial 3 year contract
Applications close: 01/05/2025 11:30 PM
Attachments:
- Director Attendance - Role Description final 4.2025.pdf
- How to Apply - Guide for Applicants.pdf
- Pre-Employment Declaration.pdf
Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.