Tumuaki | Principal

Conifer Grove School; Auckland; On-site; NZD 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A vibrant primary school in Auckland seeks a Principal to lead its diverse community of learners. The school champions a collaborative culture and values equity and respect. The successful candidate will be an experienced educational leader dedicated to fostering community engagement, navigating curriculum changes, and providing sound operational stewardship. Interested applicants should embody compassion, visibility, and strategic thinking. Applications are encouraged from those who inspire others to thrive.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in fostering inclusive school cultures.
• Experience in leading educational change effectively.
• Ability to build strong relationships with diverse groups.

Responsibilities

• Foster a collaborative, inclusive culture.
• Lead learning and navigate curriculum changes.
• Build partnerships with mana whenua and whānau.
• Embed culturally sustaining practices.
• Provide operational stewardship across essential areas.

Skills

Collaborative culture leadership

Curriculum change navigation

Building community partnerships

Financial stewardship

Education

Experienced educational senior leader

Job description

Conifer Grove School – Auckland, North Island

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

Commencing term 2, 2026.

Join us as we paddle together toward new horizons.

The Conifer Grove School Board invites applications from inspiring and forward-thinking leaders for the position of tumuaki | principal of our vibrant Y0–8 kura on the shores of the Pāhurehure Inlet. Established in 1981, our school proudly serves a diverse community of approximately 565 learners and 60 dedicated staff, united by our motto: He waka eke noa ki te pae tawhiti – Paddling the waka together to reach new horizons.

Conifer Grove School offers a rich and concept-driven curriculum, supported by Positive Behaviour for Learning (PB4L) and anchored by our values of Manaaki (Caring), Mana Motuhake (Responsibility), and Whakamiha (Respect). Our cultural diversity is a strength; we honour te ao Māori, celebrate all cultures, and value our strong partnership with mana whenua, Te Aakitai.

We seek a relational, future-focused leader who models integrity, champions equity, and inspires both students and staff to thrive. The successful applicant will be an experienced educational senior leader who can:

• Foster a collaborative, inclusive culture grounded in care, trust, and high expectations
• Lead learning with confidence, navigating curriculum change and strengthening schoolwide systems
• Build strong partnerships with whānau, mana whenua, and the wider community
• Embed culturally sustaining practices that honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi
• Provide sound operational stewardship across finance, property, personnel, and health and safety.

If you are a compassionate, visible, and strategic leader who thrives in community, we encourage you to apply.

We welcome visits to the school. Please see page 11 of the application pack for details.

For more details and to download the application pack and other documents, please visit the vacancy link. Direct enquiries to:

Julie Schumacher
*****@educationgroup.co.nz
[phone]

Conifer Grove SchoolNZ

Physical address:
Evanda Crescent, Takanini, Auckland

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