Meet Annabel Doust: A former school principal’s scandalous affair with a student Dean Gray revealed

Annabel Doust is a former school principal who was dismissed by the NSW Department of Education for having a sexual relationship with a year 12 student, Dean Gray, in 2013. She was once praised for her leadership and achievements in rural education, but her career and reputation were tarnished by the scandal that came to light after Dean’s tragic death in 2021.

A promising career in education

Annabel Doust began her career as a teacher in 1988 and worked in various schools in NSW, including Narrabri High School and Wee Waa High School. She became the principal of Wee Waa High School in 2010 and was appointed as the principal of Narrabri High School in 2012. She was also involved in several educational initiatives and programs, such as the Country Areas Program, the Rural and Remote Education Advisory Group, and the NSW Secondary Principals’ Council.

She was recognized for her achievements and contributions to rural education by the NSW Minister for Education, Adrian Piccoli, who praised her in parliament in 2012. He said that she was “a great leader of rural schools” and “a great advocate for rural education”. He also commended her for improving the academic performance and attendance of students at Wee Waa High School.

A secret affair with a student

However, behind the scenes, Annabel Doust was having an inappropriate and illegal relationship with one of her students, Dean Gray, who was 17 years old at the time. She befriended him on Facebook, initiated an intimate conversation, and then engaged in a sexual relationship with him in 2013. She also sent him thousands of messages, some of which were explicit and suggestive.

The affair was kept secret for years until Dean’s family discovered the messages on his Facebook account after his death. Dean drowned in the Namoi River while on a camping trip with friends in 2021. His family was devastated by his loss and shocked by his teacher’s betrayal. They reported the matter to the NSW Department of Education and the police.

A swift dismissal and investigation

The NSW Department of Education conducted an investigation into Annabel Doust’s conduct and found that she had crossed professional boundaries with Dean Gray and breached the Code of Conduct. She was dismissed from her position as a school principal and placed on the not-to-be-employed list. The department also referred the case to the NSW Police for further investigation.

The police had previously investigated the allegations in 2013, but did not lay any charges due to insufficient evidence. However, after receiving new information from the department and Dean’s family, they reopened the investigation in 2021. They are currently reviewing the evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine if any criminal charges can be laid against Annabel Doust.

A personal and professional downfall

Annabel Doust’s personal and professional life has been ruined by her actions. She has lost her job, her reputation, and her respect in the community. She has also caused immense pain and suffering to Dean’s family, who are still grieving for their son and brother. She has not made any public statements or apologies since her dismissal.

She is married to John Doust, a former teacher and deputy principal who retired in 2019. They have two adult children, James and Jessica, who are both teachers as well. They have not commented on their mother’s scandal or supported her publicly.

Frequently Asked Q/A