Principal

Shape the future of formation. Lead a community where people flourish.

Salary: In line with the CoE framework for senior staff in theological education

St Augustine’s College of Theology is seeking a new Principal to lead our vibrant, diverse and deeply pastoral learning community. As a non‑residential, mixed‑mode theological college serving dioceses across the South East, we are committed to excellent theological education, generous Anglicanism and an inclusive, broad‑church ethos. This is an important and demanding moment in the life of the College. Expectations from dioceses and national bodies are evolving, and the wider TEI landscape is changing rapidly. Internally, we are strengthening systems, embedding more resilient structures and raising the College’s profile across the Church at local and national level. The Principal will play a decisive role in shaping this next chapter, ensuring St Augustine’s continues to offer formation that is academically rigorous, spiritually grounded and pastorally generous.

We are looking for someone who brings spiritual depth, academic credibility and warm, relational leadership. The Principal will guide a community where students of all ages, backgrounds and traditions are welcomed, stretched and supported, including those balancing work or family commitments, those entering study later in life, and students who are neurodivergent or lack academic confidence. Our blend of online learning, parish‑embedded formation and in‑person teaching offers a rich environment for creativity, growth and reflective practice.

You will be an ordained priest within the Church of England, modelling a deep and authentic Christian spirituality. You will bring the academic credibility needed to lead a scholarly community, a depth of theological understanding and the ability to teach confidently at higher education level. You will have experience of leadership in a church, TEI or academic setting, and the capacity to hold pastoral warmth and organisational discipline together. A commitment to our inclusive, broad church Anglican identity is essential, holding theological diversity with grace and maturity. The role calls for someone able to build confident relationships with dioceses, university partners, TEIs and senior church leaders, whilst also strengthening systems, stewarding resources wisely and raising the College’s profile. Above all, you will be a collaborative, emotionally intelligent and grounded leader who takes joy in seeing others flourish.

If you feel called to the formation of future clergy and lay ministers and would value the opportunity to help shape a learning community that is faithful, imaginative and hope‑filled, we would be delighted to hear from you.

If, once you have read this pack, you would value an informal conversation to support your discernment, please contact our recruitment advisers at GatenbySanderson:

matt.malone@gatenbysanderson.com

hilda.gjika@gatenbysanderson.com  

Closing Date: 5pm on Monday 16^th March 2026