Principal - Tumuaki

Thames High School; Thames; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Thames High School in Thames, New Zealand, invites applications for an inspirational, relational and future‑focused principal (tumuaki) to lead our school.

We seek a visible, approachable leader who will actively engage with students, staff, whānau, mana whenua and the wider Thames community; someone who will champion breadth of opportunity, equity and meaningful pathways for learners and staff alike.

Position to start at the beginning of the 2027 school year.

Job description

Thames High School is seeking an inspirational, relational and future‑focused educational leader to become our next principal / tumuaki.

Our school has a proud history of serving the Thames community and a strong commitment to enabling every young person to realize their potential. Our vision, Kia kōtahi ai te piki ake, kia ikeike rawa ki te taumata – We grow together to achieve one’s true potential, reflects our belief that young people flourish when schools, whānau and communities work together.

Our next leader will be visible, approachable and genuinely engaged with students, staff, whānau, mana whenua, contributing schools, local organisations, employers and the wider community. We also seek a principal who will champion breadth of opportunity and continue to develop meaningful pathways that respond to the different strengths, interests and aspirations of our young people.

Our new principal will:

• put akonga at the centre, maintaining high expectations while recognising that success can take many forms;
• build strong relationships, engaging authentically with whānau, Ngati Maru and the wider Thames community;
• ensure students can participate and succeed academically, culturally, creatively, physically and through leadership and other pathways;
• lead an inclusive and aspirational culture;
• honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi, strengthening equity, belonging and partnership and supporting Māori learners to succeed;
• value and empower staff, building collective capability and a strong professional culture;
• look confidently to the future, while respecting the history, character and strengths of the school and its community.

If you are a leader who brings energy, integrity, warmth and educational vision, and who wants to make a meaningful difference for young people and their community, we would welcome your application.

Position to start at the beginning of the 2027 school year.