Deputy Principal – Engagement & School Organisation

Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools; Gisborne; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational institution in New Gisborne is seeking a Deputy Principal – Engagement & School Organisation to lead initiatives and enhance Catholic identity in a vibrant learning community. The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in education, at least five years of leadership experience, and a strong commitment to Catholic education. This role offers a full-time contract starting in 2026.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated strong commitment to Catholic education.
• Proven ability to lead initiatives in engagement and wellbeing.
• Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead initiatives in engagement, wellbeing, and organisational excellence.
• Enhance Catholic identity through visible leadership.
• Build strong partnerships with students, staff, and the community.

Skills

Commitment to Catholic education

Leadership in student engagement

Organisational and interpersonal skills

Innovative approach to leadership

Understanding of engagement practices

Education

Master's degree in education/leadership

Minimum five years leadership experience

Job description

Role Description/Criteria

Deputy Principal – Engagement & School Organisation
Full Time | 3 Year Contract | Ongoing Teaching Position
Commencing: Term 1, 2026
Holy Cross Primary School, New Gisborne

At Holy Cross Primary School, learning is designed to connect students deeply with both the world around them, each-other and their faith. Our students are immersed in opportunities that bring explicit learning to life, from rich classroom programs to tangible experiences in our working vineyard, with our sheep and chickens, in the garden, and across our open outdoor spaces.

We are a vibrant Catholic learning community where every child is known, supported, and inspired to flourish. We are committed to engaging learners, nurturing wellbeing, and building strong community connection and belonging

We are seeking an energetic and faith-filled Deputy Principal – Engagement & School Organisation to join our leadership team from the beginning of the 2026 school year. This key role partners with the principal and staff to implement the MACS Vision for Engagement and the school’s strategic priorities, ensuring students experience a safe, supportive, and well-organised learning environment.

About the Role

• Lead consistent, whole-school initiatives in engagement, wellbeing, and organisational excellence.
• Enhance Catholic identity through visible leadership and authentic witness.
• Strengthen school systems and structures (timetabling, curriculum coordination, student management) to optimise teaching and learning outcomes.
• Build strong partnerships with students, staff, families, parish, and the wider community.
• Support staff in implementing evidence-informed practice within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS).
• Ensure compliance with MACS policies, Child Safety Standards, and all relevant legislation.

Key Selection Criteria

• Demonstrated strong commitment to Catholic education, with a visible and active role in promoting and enhancing Catholic identity within the school community.
• Proven ability to lead whole-school initiatives in student engagement, wellbeing, and the implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).
• Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills, with a history of fostering collaboration and positive working relationships among staff, students, and families.
• An innovative and reflective approach to teaching and leadership, with a willingness to embrace continuous improvement, research and explore new ideas.
• Comprehensive understanding of current engagement and wellbeing practices, including restorative approaches, Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL), student agency, and making decisions informed by data.

Application Requirements

• A master’s degree in education/leadership or a minimum of five years’ proven leadership experience.
• Accreditation to Teach or Lead in a Catholic School and current VIT registration.

How to Apply

• A cover letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria
• A current Resume
• Contact details for three referees (including current/most recent Principal and Parish Priest).

Commitment to Child Safety: Holy Cross Primary School and Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools are committed to the safety, wellbeing, and protection of all children. The successful applicant will be expected to model, promote, and actively uphold a culture of child safety.

Applications close: 6th October 2025