Job Description

The Interim Executive Director of Schools, Diocese of Wollongong, invites applications from suitably experienced leaders for the Principal position at St Michael's Catholic Parish Primary School, Thirroul commencing at the beginning of the 2027 school year.

In the Diocese of Wollongong, Principals play a significant role in creating vibrant Catholic school communities where every student finds meaning and purpose in their life through experiencing continual growth in faith and improvement in learning. Our principals have access to:

• excellent professional & leadership development programs
• first-class support from the Catholic Education Office (CEO) across all critical areas through our culture of connected autonomy
• a professional mentor, funded by the CEO
• a platform to contribute to the life, mission and work of the Catholic faith community.

ABOUT THE SCHOOL

Situated in the coastal community of the Northern Illawarra, St Michael’s Catholic Parish Primary School, Thirroul, is a welcoming K–6 school within the Diocese of Wollongong. Guided by the school motto, 'Lift Up Your Hearts', and a core mission to inspire excellence in learning and living, St Michael’s fosters a supportive, collaborative environment dedicated to developing the whole child through contemporary education and strong community partnerships.

Grounded in rich Catholic traditions, the school's spiritual life is shaped by its Josephite charism, inspired by St Mary of the Cross MacKillop’s call to 'Never see a need without doing something about it.' Religious Education, prayer, and social justice are woven into daily life, creating a faith-filled, values-driven workplace where staff collaborate to nurture compassionate, lifelong learners.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

To achieve success in the role, the successful candidate will be someone who can:

• Model Catholic faith in action and evidence a deep understanding and commitment to the mission and purpose of the catholic school within the broader evangelising mission of the church.
• Develop a culture of effective teaching and learning, by leading, designing and managing the quality of the educational experiences of all students.
• Build the capacity of staff within a professional, collaborative learning community through the provision of effective professional learning opportunities, regular feedback and performance management.
• Manage innovation and change to ensure that the school’s vision and strategic plan for improvement are aligned, actioned and realised.
• Display clear understanding of governance responsibilities and ensure that school processes meet system, NESA and legislative requirements.
• Recognise and build on the uniqueness of the school, church and local community to develop a mutually supportive, collaborative and trusting relationship with stakeholders to ensure their engagement in the life of the school.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Current accreditation to teach with NESA
• Post-graduate study in a relevant discipline.
• Accreditation for Senior Leadership in a Catholic School (Category E) in accordance with the ‘Accreditation to Work, Teach and Lead in Systemic Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Wollongong’ policy.

WORKING WITH CHILDREN CLEARANCE

This role is classified as child related work and therefore we require a working with children clearance to be completed prior to your commencement with us.

POSITION APPLICATION

Your application should include:

• A cover letter, addressed to the Interim Executive Director of Schools
• A response to the Essential Criteria (please keep this to 2-3 pages in length)
• A resume that details your professional experience

To confidentially discuss your application or general interest in this position please contact Susan Phillipson, Acting Team Leader - Talent Acquisition & Employee Services on 0438 528 360.

Existing CEDoW employees should apply using the position advertisement on the Employee Self Service job page.

Closing date: Sunday 15 November 2026 at 11:55pm

Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong is unwavering in our commitment to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people. This is at the heart of everything we do.

Every child has the right to be informed, heard, respected, empowered and to feel safe.

As school communities and as individuals, we commit to keeping children and young people safe, and to work together with them to create cultures that honour dignity and enrich wellbeing.