At St Andrew’s College, academic and sporting success are viewed in tandem, enhancing and uplifting the lives of our students. As our Principal affirms, “I’m very proud of our success in sports alongside our academic success. We champion the ideal of the scholar-athlete, recognising that sports and academic success need not be distractions from each other but so often go hand in hand.” Jamie Podmore Taylor (Fr 2022), recipient of the St Andrew’s Scholarship, a dedicated leader and an athlete, is the epitome of the scholar-athlete.
Currently pursuing a double degree in Science and Law at UTS, whilst also taking on responsibilities at College, balancing academics, leadership, and sports is no small feat. Yet, through careful time management and a strong support network at college, Jamie is able to thrive. “It’s all about balance,” she explains. “Having friends who try to see me around my busy schedule keeps me happy.”
As Head Pastoral Care Leader (PCL), Jamie plays a pivotal role in fostering community within the College. “Being a PCL is a fast-tracked way of meeting new people and feeling valued in our community. As Head PCL, I have the opportunity to guide our new PCLs in their roles and help them support their peers.”
Jamie’s commitment to leadership is deeply personal. Having experienced the profound impact of the College’s support during challenging times, she was inspired to return for a second year as PCL. “The more I gave to the College and its students, the more I received back. I only really felt the impact of our tight community and understood the importance of peer support when I had my own difficult times. This realisation made me want to continue the circulation of support we have here, that we all need at some point.”
Currently pursuing a double degree in Science and Law at UTS, whilst also taking on responsibilities at College, balancing academics, leadership, and sports is no small feat. Yet, through careful time management and a strong support network at college, Jamie is able to thrive. “It’s all about balance,” she explains. “Having friends who try to see me around my busy schedule keeps me grounded.”
Reflecting on her time at St Andrew’s, she recalls the annual netball campaign as a standout moment. “It’s a celebration of women’s sport where the entire College comes together to appreciate the ability and camaraderie of our female athletes.”
Athletic excellence runs in the Podmore Taylor family; her brother, Harry, is also a PCL, leading Wellbeing initiatives, and is a successful sportsperson. “We’re incredibly close, and our parents’ support has always enabled our sports careers. Living together at College means I have someone who knows me better than anyone, just a short walk away.”
It is no surprise that Jamie and Harry’s competitive and determined spirit fuels their success. “We push each other in our respective fields and support each other through the challenging moments. Being able to live at college, surrounded by friends, has really helped me find balance outside of sport. It means that when sport is not going as I want it to, I’m able to stay level-headed and happy.”
Jamie Podmore Taylor is a member of the Greater Western Sydney GIANTS Netball Team, further demonstrating the intersection of leadership, academic excellence, and elite sport.
Her journey at St Andrew’s is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the College’s commitment to nurturing scholar-athletes. Through academic excellence, sporting achievement, and leadership, she embodies the values that make St Andrew’s a place where students thrive in every aspect of their university experience.