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Working with us at Hastings Girls' High School
At Hastings Girls’ we’re more than a school – we’re a connected, vibrant community committed to inspiring future leaders. Our team is diverse, passionate, and dedicated to empowering every ākonga to succeed. If you’re looking for a workplace where collaboration, innovation, and culture are valued, and where you can make a real difference every day, we’d love you to join us.
About Us
Hastings Girls’ High School (HGHS) is a state secondary school located in Hawke’s Bay, serving approximately 565 students from a diverse range of backgrounds. Our kura is deeply connected to our local iwi, strongly engaged with Pasifika communities, and increasingly focused on strengthening inclusivity across all cultures.
We are proud of our innovative curriculum (including award-winning leadership in the development of our Junior Hub programme), our performing arts and sporting achievements, and our commitment to ensuring every student feels a sense of belonging and opportunity.
Hastings Girls’ High School Principal Catherine Bentley Appointed to National Leadership Role
Hastings Girls’ High School - Ngā Rau Huia o Ākina will farewell Principal Catherine Bentley at the end of 2025, as she takes up a new national role as North Island Special Focus Leadership Advisor for Area and Composite Schools, beginning in January 2026. Mrs Bentley has served as Principal for the past eight years, during which time the school has undergone significant transformation. Under her leadership, Hastings Girls’ has become nationally recognised for its innovative curriculum, its strong focus on equity and excellence, and its commitment to localised, culturally sustaining practice. “While this has not been an easy decision, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to education in a wider context,” Mrs Bentley said. “This new role is also a reflection of the reputation Hastings Girls’ now holds across the motu. It is a recognition of the journey we have been on together - our staff, our students, and our community.” Board Chair Brendon Jones acknowledged Mrs Bentley’s impact and leadership. “Catherine’s vision, commitment, and drive have positioned Hastings Girls’ as a leader in education, both locally and nationally. Her legacy is one of innovation, deep care and inspiring our future leaders. As a school, we remain firmly committed to single-sex girls’ education and to celebrating empowerment and cultural diversity that reflects the community we serve. “ “While we will miss her, we are incredibly proud that her expertise will now benefit schools right across Aotearoa.” The Board of Trustees has confirmed that a thorough recruitment process for the next principal will begin shortly.
Principal Opportunity at Hastings Girls’ High School - Ngā Rau Huia o Ākina
Hastings Girls’ High School - Ngā Rau Huia o Ākina, celebrated on a national scale for its innovative curriculum and commitment to excellence, is searching for a dynamic Principal with proven strategic, transformational and inclusive leadership capability.
What We Offer
An empowering environment for both students and staff, with a focus on inclusivity and professional growth
A strong dedication to equity and excellence
Support from a visionary Board with clear strategic direction
Opportunity to lead a School at the forefront of future focussed curriculum
Who We Are Looking For
A driven senior educational leader, with a passion for excellence and a proven history of successful strategic innovation and inclusive practice. The successful candidate will be supportive of maintaining the Schools visionary acclaimed curriculum and have evident capability in empowering students and cultivating strong relationships with diverse communities and staff. They will have proven success in leading excellence with empathy, integrity, courage, and vision.
Key Experience and Capabilities
Proven strategic, transformational and inclusive leadership capability
Dedication to empowering staff and students through impactful development opportunities
Expertise in leading change agility
Strong stakeholder engagement with iwi, Pasifika, migrant, and wider communities
Experience in designing or supporting innovative curriculum development
Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and culturally sustaining practices
Successful Eexperience as ain a Principal or Deputy Principal in a high achieving school. role at a similar High School is desirable
If you are inspired by this key opportunity and believe you have the desired skills and experience, we would value your application.
Timeline
Applications open on 19th September 2025.
For a confidential conversation, please reach out to our executive search partner, Workforce SolutioNZ on 027 364 8886, if you would like further information.
