Lead the launch of a new school. Transform young lives. Shape the future of education.

The Y Ballarat is opening Y School Ballarat, an innovative independent school designed for young people who have disengaged from mainstream education. This is an opportunity for an exceptional educational leader to establish and lead a school where connection, belonging and student success are at the centre of everything we do.

As our inaugural Principal, you will play a pivotal role in creating a learning environment that is big, brave and accountable. You will lead a multidisciplinary team of educators and youth workers to support young people to reconnect with education, build confidence and create meaningful pathways for their future.

About Us

At the Y, we believe in the power of inspired young people.

Y Ballarat delivers programs and services across almost 100 Victorian communities and employs more than 700 passionate staff committed to strengthening young people, families and communities.

The launch of Y School Ballarat marks a significant milestone in our nearly 150-year commitment to empowering young people. Our school will provide a flexible, inclusive and trauma-informed learning environment where every learner is known, valued and supported to thrive.

Our Mission: To empower children, young people and communities Australia-wide to build a just, sustainable, equitable and inclusive world.

Our Vision: A better world, with and for young people.

About the Role

Reporting to the CEO, the Principal will provide strategic, educational and operational leadership for Y School Ballarat.

Key responsibilities include:

Establishing and leading a new independent school from commencement through growth.
Creating a safe, inclusive and student-centred culture.
Leading delivery of high-quality teaching and learning, including VCE Vocational Major.
Building and developing a high-performing multidisciplinary team.
Driving student engagement, wellbeing, attendance and successful pathways.
Ensuring compliance with VRQA, VCAA and Child Safe Standards.
Managing school operations, resources, budgets and continuous improvement initiatives.
Building strong partnerships with families, community organisations and key stakeholders.

About You

You are an accomplished educational leader who is passionate about creating opportunities for young people facing barriers to learning.

You will bring:

Significant leadership experience within a school, alternative education or flexible learning setting.
Demonstrated success supporting young people through trauma-informed and relational approaches.
Strong instructional leadership and a commitment to inclusive education.
Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and fostering a positive workplace culture.
Sound knowledge of Victorian education requirements, compliance frameworks and child safety obligations.
The ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on leadership.
A genuine commitment to the Y's values of Belonging, Excellence, Honesty, Nurturing and Respect.

Essential Requirements

Tertiary qualification in Education.
Current Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) registration.
Current Working with Children Check.
Current Victorian Driver Licence.
National Police Check (or willingness to obtain).

Why Join the Y?

This is more than a Principal role.

It is an opportunity to:

Establish a new and innovative school from the ground up.
Influence educational outcomes for young people who need it most.
Be part of a values-driven organisation with a strong reputation and community impact.
Work alongside passionate educators, youth workers and leaders.
Create meaningful change in the lives of young people and their families.

Safeguarding Commitment

The Y Ballarat is committed to safeguarding children and young people. We have zero tolerance for child abuse and are committed to creating environments where children and young people feel safe, empowered and respected. All appointments are subject to rigorous screening, including Working with Children and National Police Checks.

Apply Now

If you are an innovative and compassionate leader ready to build something extraordinary, we would love to hear from you.

Join us in creating a school where every young person belongs, reconnects and thrives.

For further information please contact Larelle Kuczer - Youth & Community Impact Manager on 0477 377 242.

The Y Ballarat

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Principal - Y School Ballarat