Principal

Lead an exceptional independent school, rich in history and driven forward by boy-centred learning for tomorrow's world.

About Us

Located between the bush and the sea in Days Bay, Lower Hutt, Wellesley is one of New Zealand’s most respected independent schools for boys in Years 1-8.

Founded in 1914, Wellesley combines strong traditions with an ambitious and progressive approach to education focused on preparing boys for the future. Grounded in its Anglican character, Wellesley brings together rigorous academics, strong pastoral care, and an extraordinary setting to give boys the foundations, confidence and opportunities to find their feet.

About the Role

This is a unique opportunity to lead Wellesley into its next chapter. Wellesley’s culture is grounded in a strong connection to its traditions, with eyes lifted to the future. Wellesley is a unique place for boys, guided by its vision that 'Every boy has every opportunity to excel”. The school's values of risk-taking in learning, perseverance for personal bests, respect and empathy shape the way every boy thrives, at Wellesley and beyond the gates. This role is to provide exceptional leadership for this exceptional school.

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Principal will:

• Deliver a compelling and inspiring vision and value proposition for the school that enables excellence in the learning experience for every boy.
• Combine deep educational, operational, and financial nous to drive excellence in all areas and enable the school to grow and thrive for years to come.
• Foster and contribute meaningfully to Wellesley’s inclusive culture and its approach to meeting all boys exactly where they are.
• Be financially astute, with a sophisticated understanding of branding, marketing and strategic communications to enable sustained roll growth.
• Be visible and present to develop strong relationships with the boys and their families, staff and the Board, and the wider community.

About You

The Board is seeking an inspiring, values-led, and exceptional senior leader with deep expertise in primary education. You will be an experienced Principal or aspiring Principal with relevant senior leadership experience. You will have excellent knowledge of the NZ curriculum and evidence-based teaching practices, and be committed to ensuring each boy has every opportunity to excel at Wellesley.

Compelling candidates will also bring:

• A progressive and innovative approach to understanding and responding to the evolving needs of the educational landscape.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate the strategy and vision of the school to students, staff, parents, community and beyond.
• A collaborative approach to leadership that enables, aligns and builds a high-performing culture and team.
• Experience within the independent school system is preferred.

Why Wellesley

• A leading independent school in New Zealand for Years 1-8.
• A high-performing school with more than a century of tradition, striving for excellence.
• A genuinely inclusive culture that helps boys find their feet and take the leap in a distinctly beautiful setting.
• A Board committed to supporting its new Principal to build and deliver a compelling future vision.

To apply in strict confidence now, click ‘Apply for this job’ or email your cover letter and CV in a PDF format wherever possible to [email protected] quoting 9122NIsk. Applications close on 30 October 2026 at 5.00pm. Emails will be electronically acknowledged and further correspondence may be by email.

To view the Candidate Briefing document, please click here.

For more information please phone Rebecca Jamieson on [+64 21 983 176](tel:+64 21 983 176).