Principal/Tumuaki

Pembroke School (Oamaru); Oamaru; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Pembroke School (Oamaru) in North Otago invites applications for a principal to lead a Years 1–8 primary with about 230 students. The board seeks a dynamic, future‑focused leader commencing Term 1, 2027.

The successful candidate will uphold REAL values and foster an inclusive culture where wellbeing and achievement thrive. We want a visible, engaging leader with a deep understanding of curriculum, a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and a collaborative style that builds strong relationships

Qualifications

• Must hold NZ Principal Certification or equivalent leadership qualification.
• Experience leading a multi-year level school (Years 1–8) is preferred.
• Ability to promote student wellbeing and achievement through inclusive practices.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for a Years 1–8 primary with ~230 students.
• Be an engaging, visible leader who makes bold, informed decisions.
• Uphold the school values and Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles in daily practice.
• Foster strong relationships with staff, students and whānau to support learning.

Skills

Leadership

Curriculum development

Te Tiriti o Waitangi understanding

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Education

NZ Principal Certification

Bachelor of Education

Job description

Pembroke School (Oamaru) – Oamaru, South Island

Primary and intermediate (Years 1–8) / kura tuatahi, Principal

Have you ever imagined leading a school in the heart of North Otago, where community spirit, history, and innovation meet? Pembroke School sits proudly in Oamaru — a town known for its heritage architecture, coastal beauty, and strong sense of belonging.

With the departure of our current principal following 20 years of service to our school, the board now seeks to appoint a dynamic, future‑focused leader to guide Pembroke School into its next chapter, commencing at the beginning of Term 1, 2027.

We are a Years 1–6 primary school with a roll of approximately 230 students. Our dedicated staff team enjoys strong support from our parents and whānau community. We live our values of Respect, Excellence, Action and Learning (REAL) which underpin all aspects of school life.

As our new principal, you will:

• have the vision to create a school environment that inspires, challenges, and supports the educational needs of all students in preparation for a lifetime of learning
• be highly visible and engaging as a leader — prepared to make bold decisions, when necessary, curious to explore new teaching practices, and uncompromising in your determination to help every student reach their full potential
• demonstrate a deep understanding of Curriculum, uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and be recognised as a role model who leads by example — a persuasive communicator and an inspiration to work with.
• foster strong relationships with staff, students, and families, building a positive, inclusive culture where wellbeing and achievement thrive side by side.

Pembroke School (Oamaru)NZ

Physical address:
Harlech Street, Oamaru