St Mary MacKillop Catholic School

Tumuaki | Principal

U5 | Current Roll: 353

“Together we grow Christ centered children who are ready for the next step”

Situated in Māngere, Auckland. Established in 2000 as part of the mission and legacy of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart, our kura stands proudly on the charism of St Mary MacKillop, grounded in dignity, compassion, service, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every child.

Our shared vision is "Together we grow Christ centered children who are ready for the next step".

We are searching for an exceptional Tumuaki | Principal to join us, a highly visible, deeply spiritual practising Catholic who is ready to embrace this role not merely as a job, but as a genuine vocation, guiding our school community in faith and excellence.

Our new Tumukai | Principal will

  • Set and uphold high expectations for teaching, learning and behaviour across the school.
  • Lead change thoughtfully and collaboratively, ensuring staff feel supported and confident.
  • Build strong, respectful relationships across all parts of the school community.
  • Demonstrate deep cultural humility and responsiveness, respecting and valuing the Māori, Pacific, Asian and diverse cultural identities that make up SMMK.
  • Promote a culture where every person feels a sense of belonging, dignity and mana.
  • Understands and models how to give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi

The Board is fully committed to supporting the success and well-being of the next Principal. We offer a committed team, a passionate community, and a unique opportunity to make a lasting, faith-based impact in Mangere.

Condition of Appointment. Our new Principal will have a willingness and ability to take part in the religious instruction appropriate to the special character of the school. The appointee will be required to accept and recognise the responsibility to maintain and preserve the special character of the school.

We welcome visits to the school. Please see Page 7 of the application pack for details.

Applications close 1:00 pm Monday 9 February 2026

Position commences Term 2 2026

If you have any queries, please contact Tanya Prentice or Nicky Knight, the Appointment Advisor, at admin@educationgroup.co.nz or 09 953 0523.