Principal/Tumuaki

Pembroke School (Oamaru); Otago; On-site; NZD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Pembroke School (Oamaru) in North Otago invites a dynamic leader to become principal from start of Term 1, 2027. The school serves Years 1–8 with strong community support and a VALUES-led culture focused on REAL (Respect, Excellence, Action, Learning).

You will guide teaching practice, wellbeing, and school-wide improvement in a collaborative setting. The successful candidate will demonstrate a clear vision for primary education, be visible and accessible to staff and families, and lead with

Responsibilities

• 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

Job description

Primary and intermediate (Years 1–8) / kura tuatahi, Principal
English, Health and physical education, Learning languages, Mathematics and statistics, Science, Social sciences, Technology, Te reo Māori, The arts

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.