Deputy Principal: Community, Wellbeing and Standards

The Opportunity

St Mary's College is a separately governed school, and a ministry of Dominican Education Australia. The College is entering a major strategic development phase under its plan, focusing on structural and operational improvement to enhance student learning and connection, and evidence-based practices.

From 2026, St Mary's College will operate with a pair of Deputy Principals.  The primary role of this pair is to work collaboratively with and in support of the Principal in ensuring St Mary's College fulfils its mission, purpose, and strategic intention.

Each Deputy Principal will have individual accountabilities as well as a set of shared responsibilities. As a member of the College Executive Team, the Deputy Principal: Community, Wellbeing and Standards shares in the overall leadership and management of the College and providing accurately and timely reporting to the St Mary's College Board of Directors. Where required, they will deputise for the Principal and share responsibility in being present at community gatherings and events.

About You

You are a compassionate and strategic educational leader who places the wellbeing, growth, and success of students and staff at the heart of your practice. With a deep commitment to Catholic education and a strong sense of purpose, you bring a collaborative mindset and a capacity to lead with empathy, clarity, and innovation.

Your leadership is grounded in a holistic understanding of student development behaviours and mental health and wellbeing, and you are passionate about creating inclusive, safe, and thriving learning environments. You have a proven ability to lead change, build strong relationships across the school community, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Your experience in shaping team structures, supporting staff development, and managing standards equips you to contribute meaningfully to the strategic direction of the College.

You excel in dynamic and evolving environments, navigating complexity with clarity, purpose, and resilience. Your strong interpersonal skills, reflective practice, and commitment to continuous improvement enable you to build authentic relationships and lead with integrity. As an active member of your faith community, you embody a values-driven approach that aligns with the mission and vision of St Mary's College.

About Us

St Mary's College is a Reception to Year 12 Catholic girls' school located in the heart of Adelaide. Established in 1869, we are proud to be South Australia's oldest continuously operating school for girls. Rooted in the Catholic Dominican tradition of 'veritas' – truth, our values of Community Justice, and Growth guide a vibrant and inclusive learning environment.

Our Dominican spirit calls us to seek truth, act with courage, embrace open-mindedness, and foster a deep commitment to inclusivity and welcome. We empower young women to succeed in learning and in life, encouraging them to become compassionate, thoughtful contributors to a more just world.

At St Mary's, we blend heritage with forward-thinking education. Our approach is grounded in the key pillars of Learning, Relationships, and Innovation, creating an experience that is dynamic, student-centred, and responsive to the needs of today's learners. Within our safe and supportive environment, each student is encouraged to grow with integrity, confidence, and curiosity.

Our curriculum is designed specifically for young women—creative, challenging, and enriching—supporting the development of strong identities, passions, and beliefs that will empower our students to make a positive impact both locally and globally.

Safeguarding Commitment - St Mary's College is actively committed to fostering communities of safeguarding that recognise and uphold the dignity and rights of all children and young people. The College maintains zero tolerance for harm of any kind.

Application process

Please visit the St Mary's College website to view the Applicant Information Package: Employment Opportunities | St Mary's College )

Applications for the position of Deputy Principal: Community, Wellbeing and Standards

should be addressed to:

Heidi Senior

Principal

St Mary's College

Applications should be emailed to Human Resources Manager, Emily Semple at 

Applications should include the following:

• Completed Application Form
• Completed CESA Employment Declaration Form
• Current CV - including three (3) referees relevant to the position and one (1) Parish Priest/Leader of your Sunday Eucharistic Community. It is essential that you seek your referees' permission to list them as willing to speak about you in relation to this position. You are asked to forward to them a copy of the advertisement and the Position Information Document. This will mean that they are better able to speak about your suitability for the position, as they will be able to speak in specific terms.
• Covering Letter (1 page), outlining reasons for your interest in and suitability for the position
• A Written Professional Statement Responding to the position with reference to the Key Areas of Responsibility in the Position Information Document. (5 pages max)

Applications close: 9am Monday 15 September 2025