Job Description

Be a School Principal and Lead, Learn, Live in Tasmania

Join the Tasmanian Department for Education, Children and Young People (DECYP) and make a difference!

About Us

We are a connected and values-driven community, united by a shared commitment to putting children and young people first. Across Tasmania’s 192 unique schools—each with its own context and character—we work to ensure every learner is known, safe, well, and learning.

As a principal, you play a vital role at the heart of this critical work. Your voice is central to shaping our education system, and your leadership is guided by the same principles that define our department. You will model and foster a growth mindset, lead your school improvement plan with purpose, and align your efforts with the department’s strategic priorities.

Through your inspirational leadership, you will cultivate a positive culture and a collaborative environment among students, families, staff, and colleague principals. Every day, in meaningful and dynamic ways, you will champion student learning and drive improved educational outcomes for every child and young person in your care.

Why Join Us?

As a principal with DECYP, you will be highly supported in your role. We are committed to your wellbeing and professional growth, ensuring you flourish and drive continuous school improvement. Here’s what we offer:

• Proactive support system with students at the centre of decision-making
• Ongoing professional growth and development aligned to our system’s Professional Capability Framework (PCF)
• Professional Learning Communities with collaborative and experienced school leaders
• Incentives including relocation, accommodation, and regional allowances where applicable
• Enriching work/life experience with the community feel of being part of Tasmania’s bright future

Your Role

As a principal, you will play a vital role in our education system. Your voice will be front and centre, guiding your actions with our values-based approach. You will:

• Model and foster a growth mindset to deliver on your school improvement plan and the department’s strategic priorities
• Inspire others with your strong leadership qualities and capabilities
• Create a positive culture and a collaborative environment for students, families, staff, and principal colleagues
• Drive change and improve educational outcomes for every student

Join Us

Every day, in different ways, you will share your dynamic approach to student learning and make a significant impact on educational outcomes. Be a part of a system that values your leadership and supports your journey.

Apply now and lead, learn, and live in beautiful Tasmania!

Salary: $166,483 to $176,141 + 12% Superannuation

Period of Appointment: Ongoing - Start date 19 October 2026

Hours: 70 hours per fortnight

Does this sound like you? What next?

Have a conversation with the Contact Officer.

Name: Mary Laing
Title: Executive Officer
Phone: 03 6166 9150
Email: mary.laing@decyp.tas.gov.au

To apply provide

• Two-page statement addressing the selection criteria
• A current resume/CV, up to six pages
• A short covering letter, up to one page
• Two professional referees.

Applicants should seek an information pack about the school/college from the contact person on the advert.

Essential Requirements

• Current Tasmanian Registration to Work with Vulnerable People (Registration Status – Employment)
• In accordance with section 106 (a) and (b) of the Education Act 2016, all Principals must be a registered teacher with full registration within the meaning of the Teachers Registration Act 2000
• Satisfactory completion of the School Leadership and Management Prerequisites (SLMP) (Internal applicants will be able to add learning to their own MyCareer profile. External applicants will be provided access on shortlisting)

Desirable Requirements

• Four years or more training as defined in the Teaching Service (Tasmanian Public Sector) Award 2005.

Applications are made via the Apply Now button and submitted online by 11.55pm AEDT on the advertised closing date.

DECYP is committed to diversity and inclusion and aims to reflect the broader diversity of the Tasmanian community. As part of our inclusive practice, we will be flexible to the needs of our staff, students and job applicants.

Supporting Documents

Statement Of Duties (PDF)

Statement Of Duties (Word)

Guide to Applicants – Principal Short Form Application (PDF)

About DECYP

Our goal is to work together to ensure that every child and young person in Tasmania is known, safe, well and learning.

The child is at the centre of everything we do and the way we do it.

Our values of Connection, Courage, Growth, Respect, Responsibility represent the foundation of our department’s culture and guide us in all that we do to ensure bright lives positive futures for every child and young person in Tasmania.

We bring our values to life through our everyday behaviours and actions. We want to attract, recruit and retain people who uphold these values and are committed to building a strong values-based culture.