Principal - Aspect South Coast School

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Aspect South Coast School in Corrimal is hiring a values-driven Principal to lead Australia’s largest autism-specific school program on a full-time onsite basis, guiding curriculum, staffing, budgeting, compliance and community partnerships across a multi-campus environment. You will champion inclusive, evidence-informed teaching for autistic students, foster a positive school culture, and drive continuous improvement and effective transitions to mainstream settings. The successful applicant will hold NSW NESA accreditation and a Master’s in Education or related field, with strong leadership of multidisciplinary teams and demonstrable experience with autism. To apply, submit a two-page cover letter and résumé to Karilyn Gumley by 22 July 2026, articulating your inclusive leadership philosophy and outcomes; inquiries to [email protected].

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 South Coast School, Corrimal, NSW
• Full-time, ongoing employment opportunity, commencing Term 1, 2027.

The opportunity:

We are seeking a values-driven Principal with a strong commitment to inclusive education and Aspect’s autism-specific approach.  You are a clear and approachable communicator who builds trust and fosters a collaborative, consistent school culture. You prioritise high-quality teaching and learning, using data and evidence to guide practice and improve student outcomes.

With proven leadership experience, you lead and develop staff to deliver effective, evidence-informed teaching. You actively support professional learning, build capability across teams and promote reflective practice to ensure consistency and high expectations for all learners. You bring a strong understanding of autism and ensure teaching is responsive to the diverse needs of students.

You demonstrate sound operational capability and confidence leading within a multi-campus environment, alongside a focus on continuous improvement and strong community connections.  You are committed to student-centred practice, supporting individual pathways and transitions, and ensuring every student is equipped for success at school and beyond.

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 South Coast School is a thriving learning community where students, families and staff work in close partnership to deliver specialised education for children on the autism spectrum. The school is committed to the belief that every student can succeed with the right support, placing a strong focus on literacy, numeracy and personalised learning to build confidence and capability. 

With an evidence-informed practice approach and a clear focus on transition pathways, including supported movement into mainstream settings, students are equipped with the skills they need for life at and beyond school. The Principal will lead the continued strengthening of high-quality teaching, family partnerships, and inclusive, future-focused opportunities that enable every student to realise their potential.

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