principal

FULL-TIME | 6-MONTH CONTRACT | COMMENCE 13 JANUARY 2026 TO X JUNE 2026 |
RUMUNERATION PACKAGE RANGE $235,388 TO $257,131 P.A. |
Join a community where your work truly matters.

At Catholic Education Northern Territory, we're more than a network of schools. We're a community inspired by the Gospel of Jesus Christ, committed to educational excellence, equity, and nurturing.

The School
St John's Catholic College, Darwin is a co-educational secondary school offering Years 7–12 (including an Intensive English Unit). Located across two campuses linked by the Darwin Botanical Gardens, the College offers a contemporary learning environment within a welcoming, multicultural community. Founded in 1960, St John's is proud of its motto
Fortes in Fide – Strong in Faith
, fostering students who flourish academically, spiritually, and personally through the values of Compassion, Courage, Welcome, and Truth.

The Position
The Acting Principal will lead St John's Catholic College, guiding a diverse and dynamic school community in partnership with families, local groups, and community leaders. As part of the School Leadership Team, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across Catholic Identity, Teaching and Learning, Pastoral Care, Community and Culture, and the effective management of resources. This role is an opportunity to make a lasting impact through educational excellence, cultural respect, and faith-based leadership.

Key Responsibilities
As Acting Principal, you will;

• Lead the College as a faith community, modelling Gospel values and Catholic identity.
• Ensure excellence in teaching, learning, and student wellbeing.
• Inspire, support and develop staff through servant leadership and collaboration.
• Lead strategic improvement and innovation in line with CENT frameworks.
• Foster strong partnerships with families, community, and stakeholders.
• Manage resources and operations effectively and responsibly.

Full details are outlined in the
position description within the Application Package
.

About You
We are looking for an Acting Principal who:

• Is a practising Catholic and active member of a Eucharistic community.
• Demonstrates visionary and servant leadership in a Catholic school context.
• Has proven success in leading teaching, learning, and school improvement.
• Builds strong relationships with staff, students, families, and community.
• Models the values of Compassion, Courage, Welcome, and Truth.
• Holds or is working towards the required qualifications in Theology, Religious Education, and Educational Leadership.

This position will involve working with children. The appointment of the successful applicant will be subject to satisfactory employment screening for child related employment in accordance with legislation.

Why work for St John's Catholic College?

• Competitive Salary remuneration package of up to $257,131 p.a.
• Lead a faith-filled, inclusive school community where your leadership truly matters
• Develop your leadership in a supportive, mission-driven network
• Generous additional leave entitlements
• Yearly funded professional development and leadership formation
• Discounted tuition for children attending Catholic schools
• Free onsite parking

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.
How To Apply
Click the link below to
download the application package.
To apply, submit your resume and cover letter, addressing the essential criteria in the
Position Description.
For External Applicants

For CENT Employees

Applications close: 28 October 2025
The Catholic Education Office reserves the right to close this advertisement early or extend it beyond the closing date.

If you require more information, please contact Recruitment on