Principal
International Chinese School, St Leonards, NSW
Christ Is My Light
An exceptional opportunity to lead a growing Christian bilingual school.
- St Leonard's NSW
- Seeking a visionary Christian educator
- A preference for fluency in Mandarin and being passionate about bilingual learning
- Are you ready to lead with purpose and leave a legacy
The International Chinese School (ICS) is a unique and dynamic K–6 independent school located in St Leonards, NSW. Founded on strong Christian values and a commitment to bilingual (English–Mandarin) education, the school is entering an exciting phase of growth and development. ICS now seeks an outstanding Principal to lead the next chapter of its mission.
The Role
The Principal will be a visionary Christian educator who can inspire, lead, and strategically guide the school as it grows from 115 students to 300–400 students over the coming years. This is a pivotal leadership appointment requiring deep faith, professional capability, and a passion for bilingual education and cultural engagement.
Key Selection Criteria
- Deep Christian Faith & Missional Leadership
Demonstrates a mature Christian faith, able to uphold the school’s Christian ethos, enrich its spiritual life, and lead with purpose, clarity, and conviction.
- Experienced, Qualified & Independent School Leader
Holds appropriate professional qualifications and a strong understanding of NSW education. Brings the capability to operate autonomously, lead confidently, and manage multiple priorities with minimal board reliance.
- Visionary, Strategic & Growth-Oriented
Able to craft and implement a long-term strategic plan that supports enrolment growth, enhances programs, strengthens resources, and ensures sustainable future development.
- Commitment to Bilingual (English–Mandarin) Education
A preference is for fluency in Mandarin and being passionate about bilingual learning. Able to champion Chinese language and culture while maintaining high-quality teaching and meaningful cross-cultural engagement.
- Hands-On, Multi-Skilled Administrator
Comfortable “wearing many hats” during this growth phase—managing operations, logistics, staffing, programs, and daily school matters with strong discipline and attention to detail.
- People-Centred Leadership & Emotional Intelligence
Leads with empathy, professionalism, and relational strength. Able to build trust, work collaboratively with staff and families, and maintain a compassionate yet decisive leadership style.
- Strong Governance, Compliance & Financial Acumen
Understands and ensures compliance with NESA and all regulatory requirements. Demonstrates sound financial stewardship, risk awareness, and organisational integrity.
- Instructional Leadership & Educational Excellence
Committed to outstanding teaching and learning. Supports staff development, lifts academic and character outcomes, and nurtures a culture of innovation and excellence.
- Entrepreneurial, Innovative & Community-Focused
A proactive problem-solver, strong communicator, and confident community representative. Able to build partnerships, engage stakeholders, and seize opportunities that enhance the school’s mission and reputation.
How to Apply
If you are ready to lead with purpose and leave a legacy, we invite you to apply immediately. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Please submit a tailored CV and Cover Letter, addressing the Selection Criteria, to:
Ken Patteson
Principal, Chifley Global Group Executive Search
kenpatteson@chifleyglobal.com.au
+61 417 777 838
Chifley Global
Dare to Lead. Dare to Change.
Est. 2003
www.chifleyglobal.com
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