ABOUT US The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity. About the Role: We are seeking a School Engagement Program Leader – NSW/ACT, Location – THQ Redfern, for a Full Time -Permanent opportunity. Purpose of the Role: The purpose of this role is to spark meaningful connections between school communities and the heart of The Salvation Army’s mission, inspiring students to step into social justice, compassion, and community impact. As the School Engagement Program Leader, you’ll champion experiences that empower students to understand real‑world issues and take action in their schools and beyond. Based in Redfern and responsible for the NSW/ACT Division, the role primarily delivers programs across Sydney, with occasional travel to support broader engagement . At its core, this role exists to build ongoing partnerships with schools, foster a generation of changemakers, and invite school communities to be involved in our efforts to make a difference and transform lives across Australia. Key Roles and Responsibilities: Relationship Management • Grow the profile of the Schools Program by networking with the education sector seeking new opportunities • Promote the work of The Salvation Army and opportunities for engaging with students and teachers • Cultivation and management of key high-level school relationships • Develop and maintain relationships with key internal stakeholders, including Area Officers, Corps Officers and Social Program Managers • Collaborate with the National Schools Engagement Team on resource and program development, active attendance in meetings, integrating national objectives into divisional activities and contribution to the annual Schools Engagement Review Program Coordination • Coordinate and deliver all components of the school workshops, including face-to-face education, administration, safeguarding/WHS and evaluation • Lead, encourage and support school activation activities • Seek and support school engagement in key fundraising and gifts in-kind campaigns • Efficient and effective reporting on engagement • Ensure, clear and effective communication with school contacts to ensure smooth program operations and ongoing relationships • Implement evaluation practices in line with the direction of the national schools engagement team Support Communications Portfolio • Actively recruit schools and students to participate in fundraising, including Red Shield Appeal, and Christmas Appeal activities and events; and keep records • Actively support with campaign events, including event coordination and attendance • Participate in wider External Comms activities and campaigns to help achieve goals as required Safety compliance • Ensure all working with children requirements are met including training and checks are always up to date • Complete a risk assessment for all programs involving children that are led by the Queensland schools engagement • Ensure all WHS requirements are adhered to regardless of primary responsibility Education and Qualifications Required: Soft Skills • Strong relationship and stakeholder management skills • Builds rapports easily and effectively with a wide audience, including leadership and youth • High level communication skills, both in written correspondence and verbally, including in forums of public speaking • Excellent risk management capacity and strong child-safety orientation Technical Skills • Knowledge of and experience in the education sector • Education program delivery experience • Sound project management skills including the ability to manage long term projects • Strong knowledge of social justice issues • High level of competency in computer skills with Microsoft Office including Word, Spreadsheets (Excel), Power Point and Internet Requirements of the role: Tertiary qualification in education/communications/community development/youth work/social work or equivalent skills gained from relevant experience. Current driver's license Current and valid Working with Children Check Criminal History check (police check) What we offer As a registered NFP we offer our eligible employees real and meaningful benefits such as; NFP salary packaging ($15,900 tax free) plus meals and entertainment benefit ($2,650) Flexible working conditions Health, fitness and financial discounts / benefits Paid parental leave - 12 weeks Up to 8 weeks leave per year through our purchase leave scheme Up to 5 days paid leave per year to ‘volunteer’ in a TSA program or activity Purpose driven career which has positive social and sustainable outcomes Employee Assistance Program - Independent confidential counselling service, opportunity for career development; An inclusive culture of dedicated, passionate and professional team members Positively supporting and impacting the lives of others through your career contribution . The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value and include people of all cultures, languages, abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions and intersex status. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check. We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration.
