University of Melbourne appoints new Dean of Graduate School of Education

Dr Jim Watterston has been appointed the new Dean of the Melbourne Graduate School of Education.

Currently Director-General of the Queensland Department of Education and Training, Dr Watterston has more than 30 years’ experience across all levels of education, including as a teacher, school principal and an academic.

He has also held leadership roles within government and educational peak bodies, including Director-General of the Australian Capital Territory Department of Education and Training, Deputy Secretary of the School Education Group in the Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and National President for the Australian Council for Education Leaders.

Dr Watterston is an active advocate for the education sector who believes in empowering educators through targeted professional development and sharing of knowledge.

“I am honoured to accept this position at the Melbourne Graduate School of Education, and look forward to contributing further to the Australian education landscape alongside its highly accomplished team," Dr Watterson said.

“The global reputation of the School provides a platform to anticipate and respond to the changing needs of the education sector, driving high impact research and managing future expectations for the profession."

Professor Lesley Farrell will continue as Dean of the Graduate School until Dr Watterston assumes the role in January.