Director - Youth Justice

Opportunity has arisen for a dynamic policy and program leader to shape the Department of Education's response for students in contact with the youth justice system. About The Department Of EducationWorking for the Queensland Department of Education means joining an organisation that values its people and promotes leadership and innovation. Be part of an environment that respects professionalism and diversity, offers training and development opportunities and embraces flexible careers and work-life balance. Find out more about working with us .

About The RoleThis position leads the Department of Education's policy and interagency partnerships for the delivery of education for young people in contact with youth justice, including program management and contract management of the specialised alternative learning programs in partnership with 5 non-government organisations. The position reports to the Executive Director, Engagement and works closely with the school supervisor for the Education and Training Centres in Youth Detention Centres, and supports the Department of Youth Justice and Victim Support in delivering education commitments within its relevant services and initiatives. Your OpportunityAs the Director, you will:

Undertake analysis and research to identify strategies to lift engagement of children and young people in early childhood education, school or training. Lead collaboration with officers across the department, other government agencies, schools and other stakeholders to support and monitor the implementation of strategic actions to lift engagement of children and young people in early childhood education, school, or training. The Director reports to the Executive Director, Engagement, Student Support Branch.

Responsibilities IncludeUndertake an analysis of a wide range of research and data pertinent to children and young people's engagement and disengagement from early childhood education or school in order to identify future strategies and actions. Promote discussion, reflection and action across the department, kindergartens, state and non-state schools and other agencies to lift children and young people's engagement in early childhood education, school, or training across Queensland. Lead and manage the delivery of specific strategic actions assigned to the Youth Justice team.

In collaboration with key officers in the department, and state and non-state schools, design and implement rigorous evaluations of alternative programs and services aimed at preventing disengagement or re-engaging children and young people in early childhood education, school or training. Develop and maintain effective communication networks within the department, across regions, across government agencies and other stakeholders in relation to identifying and developing a proactive response to emergent and contentious issues that may impact on children and young people's engagement in early childhood education, school or training.

Collaborate with officers within the department, and state schools to develop consistent data systems to collect and analyse data related to re-engagement of children and young people in early childhood education or school. Prepare responses, correspondence, major policy papers, briefings, reports and submissions, including Cabinet submissions, in an environment of tight deadlines, competing priorities and high-level demands. Identify and address emerging issues and trends that impact on programs and services to maximise engagement and re-engagement of children and young people and develop appropriate responses to ensure that services continue to align with evolving requirements.

Build and sustain collaborative working relationships with local communities, sector representatives and internal and external stakeholders to promote effective services and programs. Interested? To Apply: Attach a brief resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should have an understanding of your relevant work history);Attach a 2-page written statement in response to the attached role descriptionWe welcome all applicants to share any support needed to ensure our recruitment process is inclusive. Applications remain current for 12 months from the closing date and may be considered for appointment to identical or similar vacancies within the Department.

Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted. Occupational group Policy & Planning