Principal

The Alice Springs Steiner School (TASSS) is seeking an inspiring Principal to lead our thriving school community on Arrernte Country.

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Tjoritja (MacDonnell) Ranges, just 10 minutes from the township of Mparntwe / Alice Springs, TASSS has been delivering quality Steiner education for over 28 years. We serve more than 200 students from Preschool to Class 9, with a new Middle School building opened in 2025 and Stage 2 due for completion in 2026.

Our vision is clear:

“To be a world-class Steiner School in the heart of Australia.”

As Principal, you will be both educational and operational leader, working closely with the Governing Body, College of Teachers, staff, and parents to:

• Guide and strengthen Steiner pedagogy.

• Lead with clarity, care, and professionalism.

• Foster community and stakeholder engagement.

• Ensure compliance, sustainability, and future growth.

The role of the Principal

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to lead a growing Steiner school in one of the world’s most remarkable natural and cultural landscapes.

The Principal is the educational and operational leader of TASSS, accountable to the Governing Body.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Educational Leadership

• Lead the educational vision of TASSS in alignment with Steiner pedagogy and anthroposophy.

• Implement current and future strategic plans

• Promote inclusive, safe, and supportive learning environments.

• Ensure compliance with curriculum, assessment, and registration requirements.

Operational & Financial Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the school.

• Manage budgets and resources to support long-term sustainability.

• Ensure compliance, risk management, and effective governance systems.

• Work with the Governing Body on enrolment growth and marketing.

Staff Leadership & Development

• Mentor, inspire, and support teachers and staff.

• Lead recruitment, performance management, and professional development.

• Build a workplace culture grounded in collaboration and Steiner values.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

• Actively engage with families and the wider Alice Springs community.

• Represent the school in local, regional, and national forums.

• Foster belonging and inclusivity across the school.

Governance & Board Collaboration

• Provide timely reports & collaborate with Governing Body to shape the future of TASSS.

• Support strategic planning and ensure compliance with NT legislation.

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor of Education (postgraduate study in Educational Leadership or equivalent desirable).

• Registration or eligibility for registration with the NT Teacher Registration Board.

• Minimum five years’ experience in a school leadership role, ideally in Steiner or values-based education.

• Demonstrated understanding of Steiner pedagogy and anthroposophy.

• Strong knowledge of governance, compliance, and financial management.

Personal Attributes

We seek a leader who is:

• Visionary, yet grounded and pragmatic.
• Warm, collaborative, and community-minded.
• Calm under pressure, with integrity and humility.
• Deeply respectful of children, families, and educators.
• Able to balance long-term vision with day-to-day operational demands.

Key Selection Criteria

1. Educational Leadership and Vision – Proven ability to lead a whole school community with a focus on quality teaching, continuous improvement, and holistic student development.

2. Steiner Educational Philosophy – Commitment to and demonstrated understanding of Steiner pedagogy and anthroposophy.

3. Collaborative Leadership and Staff Development – Experience in leading staff through a relational, respectful, and supportive approach.

4. Strategic and Operational Management – Capacity to manage financial, operational, and compliance responsibilities in an independent school setting.

5. Community Engagement and Communication – Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders and represent the school confidently.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of an established and growing school in one of the world’s most remarkable cultural and natural landscapes.

Download the Job Package for full details on the role, selection criteria, and application process.

Applications close 5:00 PM (ACST), Monday 6th October 2025.

Return to List