Lead with purpose. Shape a thriving school community.

St Joseph’s Primary School, Benalla is seeking a principal who is ready to lead with warmth and ambition to make a genuine difference.

Located in the heart of Benalla, St Joseph’s is a large, well-established Catholic primary school of 390 students, known for its strong pastoral care, inclusive culture and positive learning environment. With deep community connections and a close partnership with FCJ College next door, the school offers a unique opportunity to lead a vibrant, connected learning community.

This is a role for a leader who values relationships as much as results, and who wants to shape the next chapter of a successful school.

Why St Joseph’s, Benalla?

• Lead a well-regarded school with strong foundations, allowing you to focus on growth, innovation and people
• Be part of a connected campus environment, working in partnership with FCJ College to support seamless student pathways
• Build a balanced life in Benalla, a welcoming regional city offering short commutes and strong community life
• Lead learning with confidence, supported by Magnify Sandhurst and a clear, evidence-based approach to teaching and learning
• Enjoy genuine system support, including collaboration with a network of 51 principals and targeted leadership development

This role will appeal to:

• An experienced Catholic Principal seeking a well-supported, high-impact leadership role, or
• An aspiring Principal ready to step into their first principalship with strong system backing

You are a relational, grounded and strategic leader who:

• Leads with integrity and faith
• Builds strong, trusting relationships with staff, families and parish
• Has a clear vision for learning, wellbeing and community engagement
• Is confident leading teams through continuous improvement

Click here to view the St Joseph's Benalla principal prospectus.

About You:

You will bring:

• Demonstrated leadership experience within a Catholic education setting
• Accreditation to Teach Religious Education or Lead in a Catholic School
• Registration with the Victorian Institute of Teaching (or eligibility)
• Strong communication, people leadership and organisational skills
• A Master’s degree (or commitment to commence)

About Magnify Sandhurst

Magnify Sandhurst is a diocesan-wide learning and teaching approach grounded in the science of learning. It provides clarity, consistency and strong professional learning, enabling principals to lead improvement with confidence and shared language across schools.

About Catholic Education Sandhurst Limited (CESL)
In Catholic Education Sandhurst, you’ll find a network of 51 schools and six early learning centres in large regional centres like Bendigo, Shepparton, Wangaratta and Wodonga, and in smaller communities where making people feel welcome is our specialty.

We are committed to working in partnership with leaders, students and families, providing innovation and excellence; inspired by the Catholic story. Our motto is ‘Every Student, Every Teacher, Every School, Every Day’.

Diversity, Inclusion and Child Safety
CESL embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourages people from diverse backgrounds to apply. We are committed to ensuring the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children.

Applications close on Monday, 1 June 2026.

Interviews to be held on Thursday, 11 June 2026.

Please ensure your application includes a cover letter, resume and a document addressing the Key Responsibilities within the Position Description.  

If you are interested in learning more about Catholic Education Sandhurst Ltd or registering for future opportunities, please visit our website here.  

For application assistance, please review our application guide here.