About Columba
Columba College is a state-integrated day and boarding composite school in Dunedin, New Zealand, with an enviable reputation for academic excellence and all round achievement. With a roll capped at 565 domestic students, the College provides a connected and supportive “family like” atmosphere where students are realising their academic potential and their social, emotional, physical and spiritual well-being is supported. The College provides a seamless educational journey from Junior School (co-educational Years 0–6) to Middle and Senior School (Girls-only Years 7–13).
The College’s values driven approach, guided by the motto “with grace and good discipline”, creates a learning environment rooted in mutual respect, ethical behaviour, and service to others. Columba College promotes self-discipline, spiritual growth and the development of strong character, ensuring that students graduate as capable, values driven young people with a strong sense of purpose.
The Role:
Columba College seeks a dynamic and visionary Principal to lead the College in its next chapter of growth and success. The Principal will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of the College, fostering a culture of academic excellence, inclusion and student wellbeing, while honouring the school’s Presbyterian heritage and strong community ties.
Key Responsibilities will include:
- Providing leadership and strategic direction to ensure the delivery of high quality academic programmes, including a focus on future pathways and holistic student development
- Strengthening the College’s values driven culture, rooted in respect, excellence and social responsibility, and ensuring these are embedded throughout the curriculum and daily life
- Collaborating with staff to ensure that all students receive a tailored and inclusive learning experience, with a focus on wellbeing, engagement and academic success
- Building strong, respectful relationships with staff, students, whānau, iwi, Presbytery and the broader community, creating an inclusive and collaborative environment
- Championing the integration of boarding and international student programmes, ensuring alignment with the College’s ethos, values and strategic goals
Ideal Principal Profile:
The ideal candidate for this role will demonstrate:
- A proven track record of success in senior leadership positions, ideally as a Principal in secondary or integrated education
- Strong strategic thinking with the ability to drive academic innovation while maintaining the College’s legacy of academic excellence
- A commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and experience in leading schools that embrace cultural diversity and inclusivity
- Strong emotional intelligence and the ability to lead with empathy, building trust and rapport with students, staff and the community
- Experience in leading change with a collaborative and transparent approach, fostering a school culture that values feedback and professional growth
- A genuine passion for education, with a focus on student wellbeing, lifelong learning, and preparing students for future success
- Leadership experience in managing and supporting both academic and non-academic teams, with a focus on professional development and staff wellbeing
The Principal will be a ‘hands on’, visible leader who will lead by example, modelling the College’s values and fostering a thriving, positive school culture where students and staff feel supported and empowered.
To view the position description: click here
To view the candidate briefing document: click here
To Apply:
If you are an experienced and inspiring educator ready to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, particularly how your leadership experience aligns with the responsibilities and values of Columba College.
For more information or to have a confidential discussion, please contact: Rosie Robinson, Education Pillar Lead | 027 221 2080 | rosie.robinson@brannigans.co.nz