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 workplace 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.
- 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.

The Y in Australia, part of the global YMCA movement, is a not-for-profit organisation operating in 680+ communities with 11,500+ employees and over 16 million annual visits to our programs and facilities. Backed by 170+ years of community connection, we are committed to a future where every child and young person feels empowered to thrive safely within the Y, their families, and communities.

Across our federated network, we provide childcare, outside school hours care, youth development, disability services, access schools, career pathways, recreation services, and targeted support for marginalised and at-risk young people.

Perks and benefits

- Annual Y Day & 3 Wellbeing days per year
- Staff Access & Family Discounts
- Retailer Discounts
- Salary Packaging Options
- Reward & Recognition
- Paid Qualifications

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🏢 the Y Ballarat
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