Principal / Tumuaki

Together we learn, we pray, we serve St Mary’s Catholic School, Papakura seeks an inspirational, practising catholic principal from Term 1, 2027. Our vibrant Year 0-6 school serves approximately 400 learners in a diverse South Auckland community. Faith, strong parish connections and our values of respect, care and responsibility underpin our vision of confident, connected, actively involved lifelong learners living in relationship with Christ. We seek a visible, approachable leader who provides a clear vision that builds on our strengths, values and traditions. Working with dedicated staff, a strong leadership team, supportive whānau, parish and an engaged Board, you will: Strengthen Catholic special character and partnerships with our parish and families, supporting students to deepen their faith and relationship with Christ Drive academic excellence and student progress through excellent teaching, professional learning and innovation, using evidence to guide improvement and proven senior leadership experience to deliver strategic outcomes Champion the whole child through a broad curriculum encompassing faith, academic learning, sport, culture and the Arts, with inclusive support for additional learning needs Prioritise child safeguarding and a safe, caring environment, responding with fairness, consistency and compassion Grow staff capability, value existing expertise and protect wellbeing through realistic workload expectations Lead with warmth, integrity, sound judgement and excellent communication, guiding change collaboratively Give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi through culturally responsive leadership, local partnerships and curriculum Bring strong organisational, administrative, financial and operational management, partnering with the Board on governance, strategic planning, site redevelopment and sustainability Help shape St Mary’s future through faith, learning and community.