Foundational Tumuaki/Principal U4

Gisborne Specialist School (Proposed opening date: 2028-01-01); Gisborne; On-site; NZD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Gisborne Specialist School (Proposed opening date: 2028-01-01) Gisborne is seeking a Tumuaki/Principal to lead the establishment of a new specialist school for ākonga aged 5-21. The role requires bold leadership, strategic planning and the ability to foster a culturally responsive learning environment with aromatawai at its core.

You will lead a transdisciplinary team of educators, specialists, occupational and speech-language therapists and psychologists to ensure personalised high-quality

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading a school administratively, including property, finances, staffing and compliance.
• Experience in a specialist educational setting is preferred but not essential.
• Ability to establish and lead a new specialist school with a transdisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Lead a transdisciplinary team of educators, specialists, therapists and psychologists.
• Build strong relationships with whānau and collaborate with other Gisborne schools.
• Champion innovation, inclusion and high-quality personalised learning for ākonga.

Skills

Strategic leadership

People management

Inclusion focus

Education administration

Job description

Gisborne Specialist School (Proposed opening date: 2028-01-01) Gisborne

Foundational Tumuaki/PrincipalU4

Full time, Permanent

Area / composite (Years 1–15)

English, Health and physical education, Learning languages, Mathematics and statistics, Science, Social sciences, Technology, Te reo Māori, The arts

Are you an inspiring strategic leader with a passion for specialist educatio n?

Here is your opportunity to lead the establishment of a new specialist school where all ākonga, regardless of their ability, are empowered to reach their full potential.

We are looking for a visionary and strengths-based Tumuaki who will champion innovation, inclusion and inspire excellence in both teaching and learning. Only the third to be established in 50 years, our new specialist school will consist of a newly built base school and one satellite located in Gisborne. The school will cater for ākonga aged 5-21 and be more than just a place for personalised learning. It will be a dynamic and exciting learning environment based on shared values and a joint desire for success to ensure our ākonga thrive; a place that is culturally responsive with aromatawai at its core. You will build relationships with whānau and work alongside other schools in the Gisborne area.

We seek a leader who leads through example, is bold in their endeavour and deeply committed to meeting the needs of all. Our new tumuaki will effectively lead a team of transdisciplinary professionals such as educators, specialists, occupational and speech-language therapists and psychologists to ensure that every ākonga receives the best personalised high-quality support. Experience in a specialist setting is preferred, but not essential.

You will need to have proven experience and success in running a school administratively, including property, finances, staffing and compliance. This is your opportunity to lead with purpose in a role that is both deeply rewarding and career-defining. If you are ready to empower ākonga, inspire a team and create a lasting legacy, we encourage you to apply.