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Nurture Potential. Lead Innovation. Transform Learning.
The Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, is seeking an inspiring and collaborative Virtual Academy Educator (Temporary Full-Time, 12 months) to champion excellence in learning for high potential and gifted students across our diocesan schools.
This unique opportunity invites a passionate educator to design and deliver engaging, research-informed programs that extend learners’ capabilities and creativity. You’ll guide colleagues in evidence-based teaching practices, strengthen the use of digital learning environments, and foster connections between students, families, and schools to support every learner’s growth.
Ideal for a skilled and innovative teacher with a deep commitment to Catholic education, this role offers the chance to contribute to a forward-thinking learning community that celebrates diversity, equity, and high achievement.
Internal applicants from diocesan schools are warmly encouraged to apply — secondment arrangements will be supported.
Be part of shaping a culture where every learner’s potential is recognised and realised — join our Virtual Academy for 2026.
Leading colleagues to support and improve High Potential Gifted (HPG) student outcomes through evidence-based practices, informed by research and literature, and leveraging comprehensive knowledge of student development, curriculum, and teaching strategies.
Evaluating and revising school learning and teaching programs to meet the needs of HPG students and those from underrepresentative groups, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, EAL/D students, rural and remote students, twice-exceptional and thrice students, and those underachieving.
Guiding the effective use of technology and digital resources to enhance learning opportunities and create inclusive educational environments.
Planning and providing ongoing professional learning opportunities that focus on teaching HPG learners, supported by connections within the diocese network.
Implementing systematic processes for identifying and profiling HPG learners, ensuring equitable access and support, and collaborating with internal and diocesan partners.
Building and maintaining respectful relationships with parents, caregivers, and community representatives to support student engagement and participation, and ensuring consistent communication.
Demonstrating exemplary practice and ethical behaviour in professional dealings, leading by example to foster a culture of high expectations and evidence-based decision-making.
Desired Skills and Experience
EXPERIENCE/CRITERIA
Ability to articulate a clear understanding of and a personal commitment to Catholic Education and the mission of the Church through Catholic schools.
Demonstrated ability to ensure a Catholic perspective across the curriculum.
Four-year trained teacher classification with at least five years successful teaching experience and accredited at proficient level.
Ability to apply appropriate knowledge to plan and prepare contemporary and compliant teaching and learning programs across multiple subject areas to meet the diverse characteristics, needs, and learning styles of HPG students; and encourage them to reach their potential.
Demonstrated capacity as an effective, skilled classroom practitioner who routinely works independently and collaboratively to improve their own practice and the practice of colleagues.
High level interpersonal skills with the capacity to develop and sustain constructive and respectful relationships within and beyond the online learning community.
Demonstrated excellent organisation, communication and ICT skills.
Demonstrated ability to effectively utilise data to optimise organisational and educational outcomes.
Have completed, or agree to complete, the Mini Certificate in Gifted Education (Mini COGE) or equivalent or postgraduate studies in HPG education.
Demonstrated innovative and agile mindset that supports and enhances a culture of continuous improvement.
Experience supporting students working in an educational online environment (Desirable)
Previously held a role in HPG Education (Desirable)
QUALIFICATIONS
Qualifications as a four-year trained teacher
At least 5 years of teaching experience
Active NESA Accreditation
Current paid NSW Working with Children Check (WWCC) number.
Completion of anaphylaxis training
Holds a current driver's licence.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Salary is in accordance with Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle Employees Enterprise Agreement 2020.
BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH US
Work in quality schools where students are nurtured, challenged and encouraged to excel and grow
A corporate fitness program through Fitness Passport
Employee assistance program (EAP)
Training and staff development programs
Paid parental leave for eligible employees
Access to long service leave after just five years for eligible employees.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
Contact Maree Karaka on Tel: 0428 120 620 or via email: maree.karaka@mn.catholic.edu.au
How to Apply
To apply for this position click Apply Now to enter our online portal.
Your application must include a Resume and a Cover letter addressing each of the selection criteria. Each criteria response should be no longer than 200 words. Applications that either exceeding the word limit, or do not address selection criteria will not be considered.
If you are currently employed at any of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle Agencies, please log in to MN People to apply through our Internal Careers Portal.
Applications Close: Sunday 7th December 2025 at 11:59pm
Additional information
The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable persons and preventing those in our care from suffering abuse or neglect. It is committed to implementing and maintaining compliance with the NSW Child Safe Standards and the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards and takes a zero-tolerance approach to abuse of children or vulnerable persons. All who work in the name of the Diocese must comply with the Diocesan Safeguarding Framework Policy and act in accordance with the Diocese’s Code of Conduct which includes the Diocese’s Safeguarding Commitment Statement. Employees are required to undergo a National Police Check and retain a valid NSW Working with Children Check where necessary, in accordance with legislation.
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