Faith in Your Future at Saint Kentigern
Deputy Principal –Academic
Principal’s Welcome
Damon Emtage College
Principal
aint Kentigern College is seeking an exceptional educational leader to serve as our next Deputy Principal – Academic. This role is a key member of the Senior Leadership Team and is pivotal to delivering academic excellence across Years 7 to 13. With strategic oversight of teaching, learning, and curriculum alignment, the Deputy Principal –Academic plays a central role in shaping a programme that is rigorous, inclusive, and future focused, preparing our students for success in learning, life, and beyond.
The position is rooted in a deep commitment to curriculum coherence and innovation. At its core, the role ensures that curriculum intent and teaching practice are aligned, creating learning that is evidence-informed, agile, and purposeful. The Deputy Principal – Academic leads a continuous cycle of review and improvement, ensuring that pedagogy, assessment, and programme design work together to support meaningful and measurable outcomes.
As a visible and values-driven leader of learning, the successful candidate will work closely with staff, students, and faculty leaders to cultivate a culture of excellence, curiosity, and care. This includes supporting the professional
growth and collaboration of teaching teams, while also ensuring that students are known, supported, and appropriately challenged throughout their academic journey. The role fosters a collective sense of responsibility for student success and champions strong, relational connections that enhance student engagement and achievement.
Grounded in the special character of Saint Kentigern College and its values of Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence, and Love, the Deputy Principal –Academic helps shape programmes that reflect our Presbyterian ethos and unique identity. Aligned to our Statement of Intent, the curriculum must be purposeful and inclusive, promoting belonging and equipping students to navigate both local and global contexts with confidence.
This role provides strategic oversight of curriculum design and delivery across NCEA, the International Baccalaureate, and our internal academic pathways. The successful candidate will lead innovation in curriculum mapping, assessment design, and programme delivery, ensuring that academic offerings are coherent, sequenced, and responsive to the evolving needs and aspirations of our learners.
We invite applications from experienced leaders who are passionate about shaping future-focused academic environments and who bring a proven record of strategic, relational, and instructional leadership to this important role.
Each student’s journey is valued, and their aspirations are nurtured to help create a better world.
DAMON EMTAGE “ “
Introduction
SAINT KENTIGERN IS A LEADING INDEPENDENT PRESBYTERIAN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION IN AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND, PROVIDING A HOLISTIC, VALUESBASED EDUCATION FROM PRESCHOOL THROUGH TO YEAR 13.
Founded in 1953, Saint Kentigern is committed to academic excellence, personal development, and leadership, shaping students into purpose-driven and well-rounded individuals.
Operating across two campuses, Saint Kentigern offers a seamless learning journey. The Shore Road Campus is home to the Preschool (children age 2-5), and Boys’ School (Years 1-8), and Girls’ School (Years 1-8), fostering curiosity, creativity, and character development in single-gender primary environments.
The Pakuranga Campus hosts Saint Kentigern College (Years 7-13), where students transition into a co-educational setting, choosing between NCEA and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. Saint Kentigern College, located on the Pakuranga Campus, provides a single-gender learning environment for Years 7 and 8 before transitioning to coeducation from Year 9 onwards. Senior students have the option to pursue either NCEA, New Zealand’s national qualification framework, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, a globally recognised pre-university qualification.
Academic Pathways
NATIONAL CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT (NCEA)
College
SENIOR SCHOOL
PAKURANGA CAMPUS
Years 11–13
Co-educational
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) DIPLOMA PROGRAMME
CHOOSE QUALIFICATION PATHWAY
College
MIDDLE SCHOOL
PAKURANGA CAMPUS
Years 7-8
Single Gender Classrooms
Years 9-10
Single and Mixed Gender Learning
Girls
Boys
About Saint Kentigern College
FOUNDED IN 1953, THE COLLEGE WAS ESTABLISHED TO PROVIDE A HIGH-QUALITY EDUCATION ROOTED IN PRESBYTERIAN VALUES.
Named after St Kentigern (Saint Mungo), the patron Saint of Glasgow, the school reflects its Scottish heritage and a longstanding commitment to character, learning and service.
Originally a boys’ school with a boarding facility on site, Saint Kentigern College welcomed girls into its Senior School (Years 1113) in 2003, offering a co-educational experience that continues today. While honouring its traditions, the College continues to evolve, equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and values to thrive in an ever-changing world.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to provide education which inspires students to strive for excellence in all areas of life for the glory of God and the service of others.
We are committed to fostering a caring environment where the potential of each student is realised and service to others is a way of being.
VALUES IN ACTION
The values of Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence, and Love are woven into daily life at Saint Kentigern, shaping the way students learn, interact, and contribute. Beyond the classroom, these values come to life through a diverse range of sports, music, arts, and community service opportunities, fostering character, leadership, and a spirit of contribution.
Respect: Treating others with consideration and understanding.
• Integrity: Acting with honesty and strong moral principles. Service: Giving back to the community and beyond with purpose and humility.
Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in all endeavours. Love: Demonstrating kindness, compassion and care for self and each other
FACILITIES
AND LOCATION
Located at 130 Pakuranga Road in Auckland’s eastern suburbs and along the Tāmaki Estuary, Saint Kentigern College sits on a spacious, self-contained campus designed to support all aspects of student life. With purpose-built facilities for learning, recreation, and co-curricular activities, the College provides an environment where students can develop their strengths, explore new interests and engage fully in College life.
DEDICATED TO EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE
Saint Kentigern College provides students with a challenging and well-rounded education, supporting them to achieve their best and prepare for life beyond school. As an IB World School, senior students have the opportunity to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, an internationally recognised qualification that fosters critical thinking, research skills, and global awareness. Students can also opt for NCEA (National Certificate of Educational Achievement), New Zealand’s national qualification framework, offering a flexible and comprehensive approach to learning catering to diverse interests and aspirations.
The College maintains strong academic achievement across a wide range of subjects, including STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Humanities, Arts, and Commerce. With modern facilities, dedicated teachers, and a focus on inquiry-based learning, students are encouraged to think critically, solve problems, and strive for excellence. Opportunities for enrichment and extension are also available to students looking for additional challenge and academic depth.
CO-CURRICULAR LEARNING
Beyond academics, co-curricular activities are an important part of school life. The College offers a broad selection of activities, including sport, performing arts, leadership, and community service, enabling students to develop confidence, teamwork, and resilience.
Students are encouraged to participate in a wide range of sports, with access to expert coaching, excellent facilities, and opportunities to compete at regional and national levels across codes such as rugby, football, netball, rowing, and more.
The performing arts programme is equally strong, with opportunities in music, drama, dance, and kapa haka. Students regularly showcase their talents through productions, concerts, and competitions, supported by experienced staff and purposebuilt spaces.
These experiences develop confidence, creativity, teamwork, and a strong sense of belonging within the College community.
LEADERSHIP & SERVICE
Leadership development is a cornerstone of the Saint Kentigern experience, with students encouraged to take on mentorship, house leadership, student council, and prefect roles. The College fosters a culture of service and giving back, with students actively participating in local and international community service programmes, reinforcing the school’s commitment to nurturing compassionate, socially responsible individuals.
At Saint Kentigern College, education extends beyond the classroom, offering students opportunities to develop their strengths, contribute to their communities, and prepare for the future with confidence and purpose.
Academic Philosophy
EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT AT OUR COLLEGE IS THE FOUNDATION UPON WHICH STUDENTS BUILD SUCCESSFUL AND MEANINGFUL FUTURES.
The aim of our curriculum is summed up in our Mission Statement ‘To provide an education that inspires students to strive for excellence in all areas of life for the glory of God and the service of others.’
Our educators seek to inspire, and strive to enable every student to have the skills needed for their future.
We are committed to helping every student to succeed. We acknowledge that ‘Ehara taku toa, te toa takitahi, Engai he toa takitini – success and strength is not the work of one, but the work of many.’ We encourage a learning partnership between our teachers and students, to define and achieve their academic and personal goals.
Our Statement o f Intent
To provide education which inspires students to strive for excellence in all areas o f life for the glor y o f God and the ser vice of others.
Leading at Saint Kentigern
JOINING THE SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM AT SAINT KENTIGERN COLLEGE
MEANS STEPPING INTO A ROLE OF INFLUENCE WITHIN A SCHOOL THAT CHAMPIONS
EXCELLENCE, INNOVATION, AND HOLISTIC STUDENT DEVELOPMENT.
With a proud legacy of achievement and a clear vision for the future, we provide a dynamic environment where leaders are empowered to shape culture, inspire teams, and make a meaningful impact.
FAITH IN YOU
We are passionate about the potential of people. Our aim is to attract, develop, and retain the best educators who bring their expertise, passion, and commitment to our students. Education drives everything we do at Saint Kentigern, and we know that our people—living our values and pursuing excellence—are the foundation of our success.
We make important commitments to our students, parents, and the wider community. Our commitment to you is equally important. It is based on faith—faith in your abilities, your aspirations, and your dedication to shaping young minds.
At Saint Kentigern, you will be part of a professional, high-performing community where you can thrive, grow, and achieve your career aspirations. Our teaching staff are supported by collaborative teams, extensive professional development opportunities, and an environment that encourages innovation in teaching and learning.
Choosing to work at Saint Kentigern means joining generations of educators who have helped shape the lives of students through academic excellence, character development, and a shared sense of purpose.
Position Overview
Deputy Principal – Academic
We are seeking an exceptional educational leader to take on the role of Deputy Principal – Academic at Saint Kentigern College. This is a senior leadership position with strategic responsibility for curriculum design, academic pathways, and teaching and learning across Years 7–13.
Reporting directly to the College Principal and serving as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), the Deputy Principal – Academic plays a pivotal role in shaping a rigorous, future-focused, and inclusive academic programme. The position leads the integration of NCEA and IB frameworks, ensuring that teaching and assessment practices are coherent, innovative, and responsive to the needs of diverse learners.
The successful candidate will be a visionary, values-aligned leader with proven experience in curriculum leadership, staff development, and academic strategy. They will bring a deep understanding of both local and international qualification frameworks, and a passion for fostering learner agency, achievement, and wellbeing. With strong relational skills and a collaborative mindset, they will help drive a high-performance learning culture that reflects Saint Kentigern’s commitment to excellence, character, and holistic education.
Reporting line and Org Chart
The Deputy Principal – Academic reports directly to the College Principal and has line management responsibilities for the Heads of Faculty, Head of IB, and the NZQA Principal’s Nominee.
Key Responsibilities
The Deputy Principal – Academic will lead strategic and operational responsibilities across the following key areas:
SENIOR MANAGEMENT & STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP
• Support the Principal in the smooth operation of the College. Actively contribute to the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), supporting shared decision-making and whole-school strategy. Provide strategic leadership for the College’s academic programme, ensuring it reflects the College’s mission, values, and long-term vision.
• Lead a coherent and inclusive academic strategy that reflects the integration of curriculum, pedagogy, and student wellbeing.
• Drive a culture of excellence, rigour, and equity across academic programmes.
• Develop exceptional staff and programmes that reflect the Statement of Intent and special character.
• Work closely with other Deputy Principals to align academic programmes with pastoral care, co-curricular, and College operations.
ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
COLLEGE PRINCIPAL
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL, ACADEMIC
HEAD OF COMMERCE
HEAD OF HUMANITIES
HEAD OF MATHEMATICS
HEAD OF IB
HEAD OF CREATIVE ARTS
DEPUTY PRINCIPALS (6)
COLLEGE OPERATIONS MANAGER
HEAD OF ENGLISH
HEAD OF LANGUAGES
HEAD OF SCIENCE
HEAD OF TECHNOLOGY
PRINCIPAL’S NOMINEE NZQA
HEAD OF PE & HEALTH
CURRICULUM DESIGN, INNOVATION & COHERENCE
Oversee knowledge-rich curriculum design and development across Years 7–13, ensuring alignment and compliance with the New Zealand Curriculum, NCEA, and IB frameworks.
Lead and support curriculum innovation that is evidenceinformed, future-focused, and grounded in learner needs.
Promote integrated, cross-disciplinary approaches that enrich student experience and real-world learning.
Embed the College’s learning model into all curriculum design, teaching practice, and academic review processes.
Collaborate with the Deputy Principal – Pedagogy and Heads of Faculty on the appropriate IT requirements for curriculum delivery.
• Develop and maintain clear, accessible documentation outlining curriculum expectations, assessment policies, and instructional guidelines.
Oversee staffing allocation, in conjunction with the timetabling team.
Chair the Academic Secretariat and Heads of Faculty meetings.
ACADEMIC PATHWAYS & PROGRAMME ARCHITECTURE
Lead the design and implementation of clear, inclusive academic pathways that enable all students to thrive.
Promote a balanced academic programme that supports challenge, choice, and connection.
Oversee subject selection and academic counselling processes to ensure student agency and informed choice.
Oversee the continuous review and renewal of curriculum offerings, ensuring relevance, challenge, and responsiveness to learner needs.
Ensure strong transitions between year levels, across curriculum levels, and into tertiary, vocational, or alternative next steps.
Lead curriculum and assessment alignment across the College as a one-organisation model.
Lead and manage a school-wide approach to literacy and numeracy.
PEDAGOGY, ASSESSMENT & LEARNING CULTURE
Champion inclusive, culturally responsive, and evidence-based teaching practices that engage and extend all learners.
Collaborate with the Deputy Principal – Pedagogy, and the Deputy Principal – Professional Practices and Partnerships to support pedagogy and classroom practices.
• Oversee assessment design, moderation, and reporting systems that reflect authentic learning and growth over time.
• Ensure assessment practices are aligned with curriculum intent, enabling meaningful tracking of student progress and informing instructional decisions.
Promote effective use of formative and summative assessment to drive learning progress and inform teaching practice. Ensure accessible assessment calendars are available for students, staff, and families.
Oversee academic awards, colours, and examinations through the Academic Secretariat.
Lead a culture where learning is celebrated, feedback is meaningful, and high standards are pursued with care.
Oversee the preparation and delivery of suitable revision courses within designated holiday periods.
DATA, EVALUATION & CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
Lead curriculum audits and review cycles utilising student achievement data, curriculum analytics, and educational research to inform and drive continuous instructional effectiveness and student learning outcomes.
• Develop and implement systems for monitoring curriculum effectiveness, ensuring alignment with student learning goals and school-wide priorities.
Promote data-informed inquiry among teaching teams, enabling timely intervention and personalised support for students. Ensure data systems support clarity, consistency, and studentcentred planning.
FACULTY LEADERSHIP & PROFESSIONAL GROWTH
Model and inspire professional curiosity, continuous improvement, and collaboration among staff.
Lead and develop a high-performing academic leadership team, fostering distributed leadership and collective efficacy.
Coach, mentor and empower Heads of Faculty to lead effective, collaborative, and reflective teams.
Support faculty leaders in curriculum planning, team development, and instructional leadership.
Lead communities of practice in curriculum design, assessment and pedagogy to promote inquiry, collaboration, and innovation within and across faculties.
Build collaborative teams that share responsibility for quality and consistency across the academic programme.
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT, EQUITY & WELLBEING
• Foster a culture and lead systems that ensure students are known, supported, and stretched in their learning.
• Champion approaches that reflect learner identity, cultural responsiveness, and inclusive practice across all curriculum areas.
• Work with pastoral leaders to ensure academic systems promote belonging, wellbeing, and achievement.
• Ensure student voice is integrated in curriculum design and academic decision-making.
Address systemic barriers to learning and achievement through inclusive, data-informed strategies.
RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT
• Build and foster professional and quality relationships with students, staff, parents, and other members of the College community.
Use consultative and collaborative approaches to solve problems, make decisions, and develop and implement initiatives.
Facilitate and maintain constructive channels of communication with students, staff, parents, and other members of the College community.
Provide prompt, accurate, and professional responses to students, staff, parents, and other members of the College community.
Foster and maintain a supportive school environment for students and staff.
Lead academic disciplinary matters.
Strengthen relationships with NZQA, MOE, IBO, and other schools to ensure alignment and responsiveness to sector developments.
Promote communities of practice and innovation through regional, national, and global partnerships.
CHILD SAFETY
Understand, apply and promote Saint Kentigern’s commitment to a child-safe environment, including the physical, emotional and cultural safety of all children.
• Comply with Saint Kentigern’s Child Protection Policy, Staff Code of Conduct, and all policies and procedures relating to child safety.
• Identify and proactively address risks to child safety, including any concerns.
• Identify any indicators of possible child abuse or harm, and report concerns in accordance with policy.
• Actively work to listen to and empower students.
Demonstrate a duty of care to students in relation to their physical and mental wellbeing.
Complete all mandatory child protection training and lead by example in child safety practices.
A full role description is available on request. Please contact the People & Culture team at hr@saintkentigern.co.nz if you would like a copy for more detailed information about the role’s scope and expectations.
Our Offer
At Saint Kentigern, we believe that exceptional leadership is central to delivering an outstanding education. We are committed to supporting our senior leaders with a purposeful, professionally rewarding experience, one that enables impact, nurtures growth, and reflects the significance of your contribution to our College community.
OUR EMPLOYMENT PACKAGE
We offer a meaningful and competitive employment package designed to attract and retain high-calibre educational leaders.
Our offer includes:
Competitive remuneration above state rates
A generous allocation of Management Units (MUs), aligned with the strategic scope of the role
A 4% employer contribution to KiwiSaver, where the employee contributes 4% or more
• Subsidised Southern Cross Regular Care
Significant fee discounts for enrolled staff children
• An additional week of holiday mid-year
Complimentary Saint Kentigern apparel for co-curricular activities
• Free on-site parking
STRATEGIC GROWTH & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
As a senior leader, you will have access to targeted professional learning, strategic leadership development, and opportunities to influence educational direction. We invest in our leaders through national and international conferences, bespoke inhouse leadership programmes, and mentoring opportunities that support your continued growth and impact.
INNOVATIVE TEACHING & LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
With both the International Baccalaureate (IB) and NCEA pathways, Saint Kentigern offers an environment where educational leadership and innovation flourish. You will lead within a culture that values creativity, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world relevance, ensuring our students are equipped to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES & RESOURCES
Our campus is purpose-built to support excellence across all aspects of school life, from modern learning spaces and high-performance sports facilities to professional-standard theatres and creative hubs. As a leader, you’ll be supported by the tools and infrastructure required to deliver programmes of the highest quality.
A COLLABORATIVE LEADERSHIP CULTURE
Saint Kentigern’s senior leadership team is grounded in trust, collaboration, and shared purpose. As Deputy Principal, you will contribute to whole-school strategy, work closely with an experienced team, and play a key role in shaping the future of our College community.
WELL-BEING & BELONGING
We care deeply about the wellbeing of our people. Our culture of service and values-based leadership fosters strong relationships, professional respect, and a genuine sense of belonging. From wellness initiatives to a beautiful, park-like campus, we support the conditions for our leaders to thrive.
Your New Life in Auckland Awaits
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND’S LARGEST AND MOST VIBRANT CITY, IS A BEAUTIFUL AND DIVERSE PLACE TO LIVE.
As a hub for culture, commerce, and natural beauty, Auckland offers a perfect balance of urban convenience and outdoor adventure. Whether you enjoy hiking through lush forests, exploring stunning beaches, or experiencing a rich cultural scene, Auckland has something for everyone.
New Zealand is known for its high quality of life, a welcoming and inclusive community, and a fantastic work-life balance. Living in Auckland gives you access to world-class amenities, excellent healthcare, and a strong education system, making it an ideal location for both professionals and families.
HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN LOOK FORWARD TO WHEN MOVING TO AUCKLAND
Natural Beauty: Auckland is known as the “City of Sails” because of its stunning harbours, beaches, and outdoor recreational spaces.
Cultural Diversity: A vibrant multicultural city with a wide range of cultural events, dining options, and communities from all around the world.
Education: Auckland offers excellent educational opportunities, from primary through to tertiary institutions, including several world-renowned universities.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a great work-life balance in Auckland, where the lifestyle emphasises relaxation and leisure activities, without compromising on career opportunities.
• Public Transport: Auckland has an efficient and growing public transport system, including trains, buses, and ferries, making commuting easy.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON LIVING IN AUCKLAND, CHECK OUT THE FOLLOWING RESOURCES
Auckland Tourism: www.aucklandnz.com
- For insights into Auckland’s attractions, events, and lifestyle.
• Immigration New Zealand: www.immigration.govt.nz
- Information on visa options, work permits, and moving to New Zealand.
• Auckland Transport: www.at.govt.nz
- For transport routes, timetables, and travel information within Auckland.
Auckland Council: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
- Learn about local services, parks, and community initiatives in Auckland.
For Further Information
If you would like more details about the position, please contact Damon Emtage, College Principal at damon.emtage@saintkentigern.com for a confidential conversation.
For information regarding the recruitment process, please contact Cecilia Leung-Scholz, People & Culture Business Partner at cecilia.leung-scholz@saintkentigern.com
To apply, please visit our Career Page www.saintkentigern.com/careers or scan