Former teacher becomes youngest head of department

12/06/07

The State Government today confirmed the appointment of a former country primary school teacher as Director General of the WA Department of Education and Training.

Education and Training Minister Mark McGowan said the appointment of Sharyn O'Neill (41) was formalised by the Governor in Executive Council this morning.
Ms O'Neill is the youngest person and only the third woman to head the largest public sector entity in WA, responsible for more than 750 schools and 35,000 staff.
She is a graduate of Scarborough Senior High School, taught in WA country and metropolitan public schools, and has been involved in education administration for more than 17 years.
Mr McGowan said Ms O'Neill was an outstanding public servant with a strong record of achievement who was recommended as the best candidate for one of the toughest jobs in the public sector.
Ms O'Neill graduated from Edith Cowan University with a Bachelor of Education Degree and a Masters in Education Policy and Administration.
At the Western Australian College of Advanced Education, Ms O'Neill was awarded the College Council Prize for the student with the highest academic results over the three year Diploma of Teaching Course.
She also won the Western Australian Institute for Educational Research Prize for the student with the highest results in Education and Psychology.
Ms O'Neill has been Acting Director General since October 2006 and was previously Deputy Director General Schools.
Minister's office - 9222 9111