The Vice Warden is a compassionate and capable leader who provides visible, engaged, and values-driven leadership within the College community. The role oversees the pastoral care and wellbeing of students and contributes to the strategic direction, culture, and daily life of the College.
As a senior member of the leadership team, the Vice Warden works closely with the Warden, staff and student leaders to ensure that the College remains a respectful, inclusive, and high-performing residential community. The role upholds and models the College's values, standards of behaviour, and ensures alignment with the Student Code of Conduct and the forthcoming National Code for Preventing and Responding to Gender-Based Violence in Higher Education.
The Vice Warden maintains an approachable and visible presence in College life, attending events, and community activities, and supporting students in their academic and personal development. The position fosters a culture of safety, belonging, and excellence grounded in the College's Anglican ethos.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Vice Warden provides leadership across all aspects of student life and community operations, ensuring that the College remains a safe, inclusive, and vibrant environment.
Leadership and Culture
· Lead and model the College's values, standards of behaviour, ensuring consistency with the Student Code of Conduct and the National Code for Preventing and Responding to Gender-Based Violence in Higher Education.
· Oversee student leadership programs that foster responsibility, inclusion, and personal growth.
· Promote a respectful and inclusive culture that upholds student safety and wellbeing.
· Ensure all College events and student-led initiatives align with the College's values and the requirements of the National Code.
· Work with the relevant and staff and student leaders in the management of the College's bar operations.
· Work in partnership with the Student Club Executive and Residential Advisors to build a secure, respectful, and supportive community culture.
· Address behaviours that fall short of community standards in accordance with College policies and procedures.
· Support cultural, academic, sporting, and social programs that contribute to a balanced and enriching student experience.
Student Safety and Wellbeing
· Provide visible and compassionate leadership in student wellbeing and pastoral care.
· Maintain awareness of student wellbeing trends and ensure systems are in place for early identification and response to concerns.
· Lead the Residential Advisor program, including recruitment, training, mentoring, and ongoing professional development, in alignment with national standards for safety and prevention.
· Ensure student support, reporting, and response procedures are consistent with the College's policies, the National Code, and University frameworks.
· Collaborate with internal and external services, including UQ Safer Communities, UQ Respect and professional counselling services, to provide coordinated care and referral pathways.
Student Recruitment and Admissions
· Develop and sustain relationships with schools, careers advisers, and community networks to attract high-calibre applicants.
· Lead Open Day, school visits, and other recruitment activities.
· Create innovative outreach initiatives, including a College ambassadors program, to strengthen visibility and engagement.
· Oversee all aspects of admissions, from enquiry and interview to offer and enrolment, ensuring fairness, transparency, and diversity.
· Collaborate with University of Queensland programs
Security
· Oversee after-hours security including the Duty Roster.
· Act as Chief Fire Warden and ensure all safety and emergency procedures are current and compliant.
· Work with the Senior Leadership Team to maintain high standards of residential safety, maintenance, and emergency readiness across the campus.
Team Leadership and Workplace Culture
· Support collective decision-making across the Senior Leadership Team.
· Mentor and support staff to foster professional growth and alignment with the College's mission.
· Lead performance and development reviews for direct reports.
· Contribute to a positive, collaborative, and high-performing workplace culture.
Professional Development
· Model continuous learning and professional growth.
· Identify and pursue opportunities to strengthen leadership, pastoral, and educational practice, contributing to the ongoing success of the College.
SELECTION CRITERIA
* Proven leadership in student engagement, community development, or residential life.
* Strong understanding of the wellbeing and developmental needs of tertiary students.
* Excellent interpersonal, public speaking, and communication (written and oral) skills.
* Experience in managing teams, programs, and projects within an educational or community setting.
* Demonstrated ability to implement and uphold national and institutional codes and policies related to student safety and wellbeing.
* Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation.
* Demonstrated integrity, empathy, and professional judgement.
* Ability to collaborate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
* Commitment to the College Values and Anglican ethos.
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
* A tertiary qualification from a recognised university (postgraduate degree desirable).
* Experience in student wellbeing, pastoral care, or residential education.
* Queensland Blue Card (Working with Children clearance).
* Willingness to live within the College community and participate in out-of-hours events.
* Experience in crisis management, risk, or behavioural response processes is an advantage
St John's College is committed to an equitable, diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from First Nations people and from people of all identities and backgrounds. We aim to ensure our workforce reflects the community we are part of and contributes to a culture of respect and belonging.
To apply, please submit:
* A cover letter outlining your relevant experience and how your character and skillset enable you to fulfil the requirements of this role
* A full curriculum vitae including names and contact details of three professional referees
For further information about the role, or to submit a formal application, please write to the Warden, Rose Alwyn at
Applications close at 5pm, Sunday 18 January 2026.