Position: Principal
Salary Range: $165,502 – $181,053 per annum pending experience + $3,285 PAR Allowance
Commencing Date: 12 January 2026
Tenure: Full Time, Fixed Term Contract (4 years)
Closing Date: Monday, 18 August 2025

St Francis Catholic Primary School, Ayr is a Catholic co-educational school located in the town of Ayr in the Burdekin region. The school has 295 students from Prep to Year 6. The school is one of three Catholic schools that serve the Burdekin communities and is inspired by the motto, “Christ and Knowledge”. Established by the Sisters of the Good Samaritan in 1912, St Francis School remains committed to celebrating the message of Jesus Christ whilst providing educational excellence in teaching and learning. Highly professional staff and smaller class sizes provide a safe and nurturing educational environment that gives students a sense of belonging, conducive to learning. St Francis Catholic Primary School, Ayr recognises students and families are integral to the school’s success and is truly blessed by a generous school community.

About the role

St Francis Catholic Primary School, Ayr  is seeking an experienced and dedicated Principal. This is a full time, fixed term appointment for 4 years, commencing 12 January 2026.

As Principal, you will lead a team of experienced educators who are dedicated to ensuring our students are provided with the very best opportunities to achieve their individual goals in a positive, safe and supportive environment. In addition, the Townsville Diocese provides support to you through its operational arm, the Townsville Catholic Education Office. This support takes the form of expertise in Learning and Teaching, Catholic Identity, Indigenous Education, School Development and Organisational Services, including, ICT, Finance, Human Resources and Student Protection. The position of Principal provides for the leadership and management of quality Catholic schooling and the growth and development of the Principal in the role.  The Principal’s call to leadership is a call to respond to the centrality of Jesus Christ and thus serve the Mission of Catholic Education. The Principal is the leading educational professional within the school, inspiring students, staff and members of the community to continuously enhance learning.

Key Leadership qualities and capabilities

• Promotes the Catholic vision in the school’s goals, policies, programs and structures
• Baptised Catholic who demonstrates a commitment to the Catholic faith both at school and in parish
• Displays confidence, curiosity, enthusiasm and optimism
• Displays emotional intelligence in working with individuals and groups
• Builds an inclusive, trusting community and cultivates productive working relationships
• Is an effective coach, able to respond clearly and provide and receive constructive feedback.

Applicants should note that as part of the hiring process, a criminal history check and a bankruptcy check will be completed.

What we offer
An attractive remuneration package including:

• Annual Leave at 17.5% leave loading
• Salary packaging options
• Modern facilities, equipment and resources
• Superannuation of 12.75% employer contribution
• Access to long service leave after 7 years of continuous service
• Up to 14 Weeks’ paid parental leave
• Deferred Salary Scheme
• Corporate health insurance
• Induction, professional development and learning opportunities
• Wellbeing programs and initiatives
• Leadership Support

Our Organisation

Townsville Catholic Education provides a supportive, flexible working environment where care for the individual is an important part of our ethos.  We employ motivated people who want to work together to produce excellent outcomes for our students. Our staff are recognised as being central to achieving our mission.

Townsville Catholic Education has standards of conduct for workers to maintain a safe and healthy environment for children. Our commitment to these standards requires that we conduct working with children checks and background referencing for all persons who will engage in direct and regular involvement with children and young people and/or adults-at-risk. The organisation is fully committed to child safety and has a zero tolerance to abuse of children or adults-at-risk.

How to apply

Click on the link to apply via the Careers page.