Principal: Primary School

Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools; Russell (MO); On-site; USD 100,000 - 156,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional growth

Three campuses integration

Counselling and wellbeing support

Onsite parking

Gym access

Discounted college fees

Job summary

MacKillop College is recruiting a Principal: Primary School for Wyndham Vale, commencing January 2027, to lead the new campus from inception. The role reports to the College Principal and sits on the MacKillop College Leadership Team, shaping the educational, pastoral, and operational foundations for the campus opening in 2028.

The successful candidate will drive contemporary curriculum design, evidence-informed pedagogy, and a culture of continuous improvement while building strong

Qualifications

• Commitment to Catholic education and values-based leadership.
• Experience directing school-wide change and improvement initiatives.
• Proven ability to build partnerships with families and communities.

Responsibilities

• Provide educational, pastoral, and operational leadership for the new Primary School.
• Design and implement a contemporary primary curriculum and pedagogy.
• Foster inclusive learning environments and strong student wellbeing.
• Collaborate with College leaders to ensure continuity from Foundation to Year 12.

Skills

Catholic education leadership

Strategic planning

Operational leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Staff development

Education

Master's degree in Educational Leadership

Teaching qualification

Tools

Education management software

Data analytics for education

Job description

Role Description/Criteria

MacKillop is a Catholic co-educational College in the Josephite tradition, inspired by the vision of St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop. We are committed to nurturing lifelong learners who engage authentically, embrace diversity, and strive for personal excellence in all aspects of life. As an innovative and future-focused College, MacKillop offers contemporary facilities, a dynamic curriculum, and comprehensive wellbeing programs designed to meet the diverse needs of approximately 1,820 students across Years 7–12. The MacKillop College, Wyndham Vale Campus represents an exciting new chapter in the College's history. Purpose-built to meet the growing demand for Catholic education in Melbourne's west, the campus will open progressively beginning in 2028 and will provide innovative learning spaces, and exceptional opportunities for students and staff. As part of a vibrant and connected multi-campus community, the Wyndham Vale Campus will embody MacKillop's commitment to excellence, innovation and faith-filled education for future generations.

About the role

MacKillop College is embarking on an exciting new chapter with the opening of a new Primary School in Wyndham Vale in 2028, extending our commitment to Catholic education and strengthening our presence in Melbourne’s West. This newly created Principalship presents a rare opportunity for an exceptional educational leader to shape and lead a new learning community from its inception. Commencing in 2027, the Principal: Primary School will work closely with the College Principal, Vice Principal and Leadership Team to establish the schools educational, pastoral and operational foundations and create an aligned learning community, grounded in the College’s vision, values and Josephite tradition. The successful candidate will provide strong educational leadership in the design and implementation of a contemporary primary curriculum, while fostering evidence-informed pedagogy and a culture of continuous improvement. They will build a strong and inclusive learning environment where every student is known, supported and challenged to achieve their potential, and develop authentic partnerships with families and the wider community. The Principal: Primary School will lead the development of a school recognised for pedagogical excellence, educational innovation, and a deep commitment to student wellbeing. As a member of the MacKillop College Leadership Team, the Principal will also contribute to the strategic direction of MacKillop College, strengthening the continuity of learning and the seamless educational journey from Foundation to Year 12. This is an exciting opportunity to help define the future of Catholic education at MacKillop College. We welcome applications from visionary and accomplished educational leaders who are inspired by the opportunity to build something extraordinary in the tradition of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop.

This full time, position of leadership (Primary Principal, Level 4) is for a fixed term of five years, commencing in January 2027.

Our ideal Candidate will have

• a commitment to working in a Catholic education environment
• leadership experience which demonstrates a balance of strategic thinking and operational leadership
• a demonstrated capacity to lead change and embed evidence-based practices
• an ability to create an environment where students flourish and staff are informed and empowered
• demonstrated success in building strong connections with families
• exceptional organisational, problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• a proactive mindset with a commitment to continuous improvement

Benefits

• our welcoming and supportive culture based on Gospel Values and the Josephite tradition
• opportunity to shape the future for Catholic education in the community
• professional growth and career development within MacKillop College and Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools
• empathetic staff wellbeing programs, including access to emotional support and counselling/debriefing
• contemporary learning facilities, across three campuses
• structured professional collaboration, including regular reflection on pedagogical practice
• access to a team of dedicated instructional coaches and teacher mentors
• free onsite parking, access to an onsite gym and discounted College fees

MacKillop College promotes the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all students