Matarau School

Year 1-8 – roll approx. 330+
Commencing Term 2, 2025

Situated in the beautiful rural countryside, Matarau School is approximately 20 minutes from Whangārei, just outside Te Kamo, in Te Tai Tokerau.

We are seeking an inspiring principal who will champion our values and foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging environment for all. Our school is grounded in the belief that education should nurture independent, self-managed learners who are excited to come to school each day, knowing they are valued, heard, and supported.

Our programmes emphasise:

• The power of a positive attitude in achieving success.
• Independent learning as both a life skill and an end in itself.
• Values-based education as central to school life.
• The importance of partnerships between home and school.
• Relationships as the foundation of effective learning.

What We Offer:

A welcoming rural school steeped in tradition, from Calf Club to Environmental Days, where every child is encouraged to learn well, play well, build positive friendships, and grow a healthy sense of self.

Who We’re Looking For:

Pou Tāngata – A Leader of People

An approachable, empathetic, great communicator who values collaboration and fosters strong relationships with students, staff, and the community. You will have integrity, fairness, and a good sense of humour that connects with our students.

Pou Ako – A Leader of Learning

You are passionate about academic excellence, committed to inclusive education, and ready to lead the implementation of the refreshed curriculum. You’ll embrace the Cambridge Curriculum for our senior students and create diverse, engaging learning experiences using our environment and community.

Pou Tikanga Māori

You will strengthen ties with local iwi/hapū - Ngati kahu o Torongare are tangata whenua - promote Te Ao Māori, and uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, weaving tikanga and Te Reo Māori into school life.

Pou Mahi – A Leader of Operations

You are an effective manager of resources, budgets, property, and personnel, ensuring the school runs smoothly and is well-resourced for the future.

What Our Students Want:

A principal who loves sports, joins in the fun, values the arts, listens with kindness, and brings energy and fairness to everything they do.

If you are a visionary leader who is ready to make a difference, we would love to hear from you!

The Board encourages applications from new and experienced leaders and is committed to supporting the new principal with ongoing professional development.

We would welcome visits to the school. Please see page 13 of the application pack for details.

Please visit our website to view our strategic plan, newsletters, and latest ERO report.

Applications close 1:00 pm Friday 24 January 2025