Our Client:
Oaklands Te Kura ō Ōwaka School is a vibrant and inclusive full primary (Years 0–8) in the heart of Halswell, Christchurch. With approximately 600 students, the school is known for its welcoming culture, supportive staff and strong partnerships with whānau.
The Board is seeking an exceptional educational leader. Someone who will uphold and extend Oaklands Te Kura ō Ōwaka strengths in wellbeing, achievement and community connection, while leading with empathy, integrity and strategic vision.
The Role:
As Principal, you will provide strong professional and educational leadership to ensure every learner thrives. Working closely with the Board, senior leadership team and staff, you will foster a culture of high expectations and deep care.
Key priorities include:
- Visionary Leadership: Deliver a clear, future focused vision promoting excellence in teaching, learning and wellbeing
- Relationship Building: Build and sustain trusting relationships with staff, students, whānau and community partners
- Staff Empowerment: Drive professional growth through meaningful learning, mentoring and collaboration
- Effective Operations: Manage school resources and operations, ensuring a safe, well resourced and efficient learning environment
- Values Driven Culture: Uphold the school’s values of inclusion, curiosity and success, reinforcing its positive reputation
This is a highly visible role where your leadership will influence both the school and the wider Halswell community.
Your Skills and Experience:
- Proven leadership experience as a Principal or Senior Educational Leader, with a strong understanding of primary education and the New Zealand Curriculum
- Expertise in strategic planning, governance, budgeting and Board relationship management, with a focus on educational outcomes
- A commitment to student centred leadership, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment
- Strong community engagement skills, building partnerships with whānau and local organisations
- Deep understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the ability to embed its principles across the school and community
- Proven ability to lead and inspire a team, with excellent communication, interpersonal and staff development skills
- A track record of fostering professional growth and collaboration within teams
Key Attributes:
- Integrity and Transparency – leads with honesty, trustworthiness and clear communication
- Approachability and Supportiveness – visible and engaged with staff, students and whānau, offering support and actively listening
- Growth Mindset – open to innovation and continuous improvement in leadership and learning
- Strong Leadership – effective decision making, communication and ability to uphold high standards
- Community and Cultural Awareness – committed to promoting inclusivity and valuing the diverse cultures within the school community
To view what the students want to see in their Principal: https://youtu.be/LEIDX0XsfBc
To view the position description for this role click here
To Apply:
This is a rare opportunity to lead a high performing, community minded school with an engaged Board, capable staff and supportive parent community. You will have the chance to shape the next chapter of Oaklands Te Kura ō Ōwaka School, to inspire curiosity, growth and lifelong learning for every child.
To request a copy of the Candidate Briefing document or have a confidential discussion please contact Rosie Robinson 027 221 2080 or rosie.robinson@brannigans.co.nz
Applications close 10 November 2025
