Role Description/Criteria
At Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools Ltd (MACS) we envision every student to be inspired and enabled to flourish and enrich the world. MACS is the largest Catholic school system in Australia. We own, govern and operate approximately 300 Catholic schools, employ over 17,000 staff and serve more than 118,000 students and their families in the Archdiocese of Melbourne. It is an exciting time to join MACS, where we are transforming to bring to life our recently launched strategic plan: MACS 2030: Forming Lives to Enrich the World.
It is an exciting time to join MACS, where we are transforming to bring to life our strategic plan - MACS 2030: Forming Lives to Enrich the World that will help all MACS staff come together to make the most of what a Catholic education has to offer so that we have the greatest and most distinctive impact in our classrooms, staffrooms and schools communities. More details on the MACS strategy can be found here.
The MACS Code of Conduct (the Code) embodies our collective commitment to fostering a positive and supportive work environment that prioritises the health, safety and wellbeing of everyone, inspired by our Catholic faith. We ask that all staff read and understand the Code and model the behaviours that are expected of us.
YOUR ROLE
As a Principal, you will be inspired to lead a joy-filled community where students, staff, and families can flourish within a Catholic context. Your leadership will enable the vision of the school to be realised, creating an environment where everyone can reach their full potential. The role of the Principal is one of the most important roles across the MACS system, as their faith and educational leadership enables the vision of the school to be realised. This role will work in collaboration with MACS, staff members, local Parish Priest, and the broader School community to achieve the identified goals of the School.
ABOUT ST ANDREW’S, WERRIBEE
St Andrew’s is one of six Catholic primary schools within the St Andrew’s Parish in Werribee. With a rich history spanning over 100 years and a strong connection to the Josephite Sisters, the school offers students meaningful opportunities to engage with and contribute to this legacy, encouraging them to embrace it as a part of their heritage.
St Andrew’s embraces cultural diversity and is dedicated to providing a quality education that supports academic achievement, spiritual growth, and the development of each student’s full potential. The school is committed to nurturing a welcoming and inclusive community where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn. Students are encouraged to recognise their self-worth and understand their capacity to make meaningful contributions to Australian society.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
St Andrew’s Primary School is a Christ-centered community where the values of the Catholic Church are taught and lived out in an environment of respect, acceptance, and compassion. Guided by the teachings of the Gospel, students and staff nurture relationships that are supportive, caring, and inclusive. Liturgy and prayer enrich the spiritual life of the school, deepening faith and fostering a sense of unity and purpose among all members of the community.
St Andrew’s places a strong emphasis on student wellbeing, offering a variety of co-curricular activities and experiences that engage students and nurture their skills and talents beyond the classroom. The school is committed to building strong partnerships with parents and the wider community, providing targeted support for students with diverse learning needs. A culture of continuous improvement underpins all aspects of school life, fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence among staff and students alike.
Parental involvement is always welcomed, actively encouraged and valued. Some of the ways parents are involved may include School Advisory Council, 3 way learning conversations and The Huddle – working weekly with Gr 6 students. The community continually seeks ways to support families and students on their journey through primary school.
*Enrolment numbers are correct at the time of publication.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA
- Evidence of strong faith leadership through being an active member in good standing of a Catholic Church community, including Sunday attendance, whilst being informed by the Church's teaching and local mission.
- Demonstrated ability in instructional leadership, including determining and implementing evidence-based learning and teaching program and school curriculum.
- Evidence of unwavering commitment to fostering a workplace that prioritises the safety and wellbeing of all, including all MACS employees, students, parish, broader church, educational system, other schools, and educational authorities in line with current community safety standards and expectations.
- Displays a strong commitment to enrolment growth, financial stability, and a commitment to risk mitigation whilst effectively managing resources within a regularly monitored, evidence-based strategic plan.
- Demonstrated understanding and enactment of the legislative and systemic compliance requirements applicable to all Catholic schools.
- Shows attributes of justice and compassion in setting high standards for self and others in the leadership of pastoral care and the provision of an engaging education that provides multiple pathways and options for positive outcomes for young people.
- Strong coaching and leadership skills to enable team growth and development, championing innovation and improvement to support continuous learning.
HOW TO APPLY
Please refer to the position description for further details about the role and the Key Selection Criteria.
Click APPLY to submit your application.
If you have any queries about this role, they can be directed to our team by email principalappointments@macs.vic.edu.au
All applicants are required to submit a copy of:
- Certified evidence of Victorian Institute of Teaching registration (including current criminal history check)
- Certified evidence of academic qualifications – inclusive of tertiary qualifications, academic qualifications additional to initial teacher education (Master’s degree or five-year equivalent) and accreditation to teach Religious Education in a Catholic School.
- Current resume
- Cover letter
- Document addressing the key selection criteria limited to four to five pages.
- The names and contact details of three referees including the Catholic Priest of the Parish you attend. These referees will be required to make relevant verbal responses regarding the applicant’s capacity to meet the specific local selection criteria.
- Certified statements of service from current and previous employers are required from applicants who are currently not employed in Victorian Catholic education.
Note: MACS is committed to the safety, wellbeing and protection of all children in our care. The successful candidate must hold or acquire, and maintain a Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) and/or Working with Children Check, and must be willing to obtain and maintain a national criminal history check.
Candidates must hold full Australian working rights, and provide evidence of this.
All successful candidates will be required to complete a “Schools Fit and Proper Personal Declaration”
The MACS Code of Conduct (the Code) embodies our collective commitment to fostering a positive and supporting work environment that prioritises the health, safety and wellbeing of everyone, inspired by our Catholic faith. We ask that all staff read and understand the Code and model the behaviours that are expected of us.
Privacy Collection Notice – Job Applicants
MACS collects your Personal information to assess your application and suitability for employment. By submitting your Personal information, you consent to the use and disclosure of your Personal information for the purpose of being considered for employment at MACS. Applicants can withdraw their applications at any time during the recruitment process
For further details, please see the full Privacy Collection Notice here
COMMENCEMENT DATE: Term 1 27 January 2026
APPLICATIONS CLOSE: 4:00pm Tuesday 10 June 2025
Application Procedures
https://cem.elmotalent.com.au/careers/careers/job/view/1208