Principal - Aspect Central Coast School

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Aspect's Principal Aspect Central Coast School, Terrigal, NSW, is a full-time, on-site leadership position within Australia's largest autism-specific school program. You will provide strategic direction, lead a team of Special Education Educators, foster an inclusive, safe culture, drive outcomes with data, oversee curriculum, compliance, budget, and multi-campus operations, and collaborate with families and the community to support diverse pathways including transitions beyond school. Key qualifications include NESA accreditation, Master’s in Education or related field, NSW Working with Children Check, and experience managing multi-disciplinary teams and improving student outcomes. To apply, send a current résumé and a two-page cover letter addressing suitability for senior leadership and alignment with Aspect values, to Karilyn Gumley by 22 July 2026.

Company Description

Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) is one of Australia’s largest autism-specific service providers, with one of the biggest autism-specific school programs in the world. A not-for-profit organisation, we work in partnership with people of all ages on the autism spectrum, and their families to deliver evidence-informed solutions that are person-centred, family-focused, and customer driven.

At Aspect we recognise a different brilliant®, where we seek to understand, engage and celebrate the strengths, interests, and aspirations of people on the autism spectrum.

Job Description

A unique and exciting opportunity has become available to join Australia's largest national provider of autism-specific educational services

• As an Aspect School Principal, 'Lead Learner', you will lead a team of highly committed Special Education Educators, and foster a positive, inclusive and safe work culture 
• Located within a thriving local community at Aspect Central Coast School, Terrigal, NSW 
• Full-time, ongoing employment opportunity, commencing Term 1, 2027.

The opportunity:

We are seeking an experienced and values-driven Principal who brings a strong commitment to inclusive education and alignment with Aspect’s approach.

You will be a clear and approachable communicator who builds trust with staff, students and families, and fosters a collaborative and positive school culture. You are able to use data and evidence to inform decision-making, drive continuous improvement and support strong student outcomes.

With proven leadership experience, you will effectively lead and develop teams, support professional learning and maintain a focus on high expectations for all learners. You will bring sound operational capability, including an understanding of compliance and the ability to confidently lead within a multi-campus environment.

You will also demonstrate a strong commitment to student-centred practice, with experience supporting diverse pathways for students, including transitions within and beyond school.

Aspect Education:

Aspect Schools are leaders in education for children on the autism spectrum K-12, leading the way in developing and applying innovative, evidence-based education approaches that create positive outcomes for autistic students and young people.

It’s the perfect time to join one of our ten Aspect Schools as we continue on our exciting journey alongside Dr Lyn Sharratt to put focus on data, demonstrating growth of students learning and development. Our dedicated Educators are transforming the landscape of autism education, paving the way for brighter futures and boundless opportunities for our students.

About the School:

Aspect Central Coast School is a thriving learning community of students, parents, teachers and school support staff who are committed to providing a rich, challenging and rewarding education specifically designed for children on the autism spectrum.

We believe that every child can achieve when provided the right support, educational environment, and time. With this belief, the school’s staff place a high value on literacy and numeracy as the building blocks for learning and success across the curriculum, and upon providing opportunities for our students to prepare them for life at, and beyond school. We are committed to meeting the needs of children on the autism spectrum and to supporting their families. 

Click here to view further information about our school.

What you will do:

As the Principal, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of school operations, fostering a supportive learning environment for our autistic students and driving educational excellence.

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for the school, aligning with Aspect's mission and values
• Oversee curriculum development and implementation, ensuring it meets the unique needs of students with autism spectrum disorder
• Manage and mentor teaching and support staff, promoting professional development and best practices
• Collaborate with parents, carers, and the wider community to enhance student outcomes
• Develop and manage the school budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources
• Ensure compliance with educational standards and regulations
• Foster a positive and inclusive school culture that supports the wellbeing of students and staff
• Implement and oversee effective behaviour support strategies
• Liaise with external stakeholders, including government agencies and community organisations
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the quality of education and support services

Click here to review the Position Profile

Qualifications

What we are looking for:

• Experience in successfully managing and developing teams in the education sector including multi-disciplinary teams (special education services preferred)
• Demonstrated experience building collaborative and effective relationships with community stakeholders (e.g. P&F, other local schools and community groups)
• Professional experience working with children on the autism spectrum and/or special needs
• Strong ICT knowledge and skills (including MS Office suite, SharePoint, OneDrive etc.,)
• A demonstrated ability to financially manage a school
• Demonstrate the principles of professional practice as per Australian Professional Standards for Principals
• NESA accreditation (essential) & tertiary qualifications in educational leadership and disability (Master's degree in Education, Special Education, or a related field)
• NSW Working with Children Check clearance for paid employment
• Current NSW driver's licence
• You may be required to provide an international police clearance.

Additional Information

What we offer:

• Ongoing professional learning opportunities for advancement
• Competitive total remuneration package
• Salary packaging options to increase your take-home pay
• Employee referral incentives
• Access to a wide range of discounts through Beny on everyday purchases
• Discounted membership to fitness facilities through Fitness Passport
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with Converge International.

To apply:

Applicants are requested to submit a current résumé together with a covering letter (maximum of two pages). The covering letter should clearly demonstrate your suitability for a senior school leadership role, including your experience in leading inclusive educational environments, and articulate your educational philosophy in alignment with Aspect Education’s values and approach.

All applications should be addressed to Karilyn Gumley, Deputy National Director, Aspect Education.

The closing date for applications is Wednesday, 22nd July 2026.

Aspect reserves the right to interview and appoint at any stage during the search process.

Enquiries should be directed to: Karilyn Gumley, Deputy National Director, Aspect Education, [email protected]

Aspect is committed to increasing the number of Autistic staff and providing an inclusive workplace where everyone can feel that they belong. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds including, but not limited to, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, neurodivergent people, people with a disability, the LGBTQIA+ community and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, to apply. We have a range of universal strategies to meet the needs of different people in our hiring processes, and are happy to individualise these.

Learn more about us: www.autismspectrum.org.au