If the Department of Education was a country it would be sitting today just outside the top 10 countries at the Commonwealth Games after a golden week.

On Tuesday Goulburn assistant teacher Ellen Ryan became the first Australian to win a Commonwealth Games women’s lawn bowl singles title.

While today Shoalhaven para swimmer Jasmine Greenwood claimed gold in the 200m individual medley SM10.

Ms Ryan is a former Goulburn High School student who returned as a learning support officer, while Jasmine has had the challenging task of preparing for both her HSC and the Games.

Ms Ryan, 25, overcame Guernsey favourite Lucy Beere before a capacity crowd to win on the green 21-17 while Jasmine stormed home in 2.33.29 in the pool, to the delight of Shoalhaven High School staff and students.

The wins adds to the swimmer’s swag of medals, including three at this year’s World Para Championships in Portugal and silver at last year’s rescheduled Tokyo Paralympics.

Principal Damian Rees said Jasmine had endured and sacrificed much to reach Birmingham.

At the age of six she suffered strokes and a brain injury after an acute bout of appendicitis and septic shock. Yet she has pushed on to achieve sporting success.

“Jasmine is a wonderful young lady, a role model to all and an inspiration to our student and staff community at Shoalhaven High School,” he said.

“We are humbled to share a small part of her journey over the past six years.”

Meanwhile, Goulburn High School principal Yogesh Mani said staff stayed up late to cheer Ms Ryan on the green from their loungerooms.

A talented bowler even as a teen, Ms Ryan was part of the school’s sports program during her high school years.

Now, as a member of staff she “goes above and beyond to help the students”.

To support her sporting ambitions, the school has accommodated her demanding training schedule.

“She is a fantastic colleague,” Mr Mani said. “She always has the school at heart.

“She is resilient and works hard and loves our school and her job. All the staff and students send our heartfelt congratulations.”