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 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.
ABOUT EMMAUS CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL, SYDENHAM
Established in 1997, Emmaus Catholic Primary School opened with 118 students and has grown into a thriving Catholic learning community of approximately 476 students. Guided by the Gospel and Catholic tradition, Emmaus Catholic Primary School is a welcoming and vibrant community where every child is known, valued, and supported to flourish academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally. The school celebrates the richness of its culturally diverse community and fosters an inclusive environment where all families feel a strong sense of belonging.
The school currently features 21 contemporary learning spaces and a well-resourced library that supports student learning and engagement. In 2026, Emmaus commenced an exciting building project that includes six new contemporary learning spaces and a dedicated art atelier, further enhancing opportunities for creativity, collaboration, and innovative learning. The thoughtfully designed grounds provide a range of active and passive play spaces, reflecting the school's commitment to wellbeing, environmental stewardship, and a strong sense of community.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
At Emmaus Catholic Primary School, strong partnerships with families, the Parish, and the wider community are central to creating a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment where every child is known, valued, and encouraged to thrive. Child safety and wellbeing remain at the heart of all that the school does.
As a vibrant Catholic learning community, Emmaus supports students to grow in faith, learning, and service. Families from diverse backgrounds and traditions are warmly welcomed, enriching the life of the school through their unique perspectives and experiences. The school fosters a culture of respect, belonging, and lifelong learning, where the individual gifts and strengths of every person are recognised and celebrated.
Conveniently located opposite Watergardens Railway Station and within easy reach of local bus services and Watergardens Shopping Centre, Emmaus is highly accessible for families across the local area. Proud of its strong community spirit, Emmaus partners with students and families to nurture confident, compassionate, and capable young people who are empowered to make a positive contribution to the world around them.
The Principal leads a team of approximately 60 staff and a student cohort of 476. MACS is seeking a Principal who will continue to nurture the strong relationships and actively engage with the community.
*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 or record of:
- Certified evidence of Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) Registration (including current criminal history check) or current Digital VIT Registration Card.
- 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 and or lead 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 regularly attend on a Sunday. These professional 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 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”
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 2027
APPLICATIONS CLOSE: 4:00pm Monday, 24 August 2026
Please feel free to submit your application ahead of the closing date as applications will be reviewed throughout the advertising period.
Application Procedures
https://cem.elmotalent.com.au/careers/careers/job/view/1659