St Andrew’s Cathedral School offers a wealth of opportunities that empower students to step outside their comfort zones, with Remy Maguire as a shining example. Through her involvement in sport, leadership roles and transformative experiences, Remy’s journey is one of self-discovery and growth.
Congratulations to Remy for being named as part of the NSW Premier’s List of All-rounders as well as receiving a Top Achiever title in Industrial Technology.
When did you join St Andrew’s Cathedral School?
I joined the School at the start of Year 7. The way in which the School planned and carried out our introduction to High School, starting with camp in the first few weeks, made me feel comfortable to open up, be myself and want to try new things.
What was your proudest achievement at the School?
Getting an award for overall outstanding achievement in Year 11. I never would’ve thought I would be the type of person to get that. Up until Year 10 my confidence in my abilities was fairly low. However, having that support and belief in me from my teachers was such an amazing feeling and drove me to want to do well in areas I knew I struggled with.
In general, what did you most enjoy about your time at the School?
The most enjoyable thing was the range of different opportunities available to us, from sport, to camps, to tours. I was involved in many different activities within the School, from playing netball and touch football on Saturdays, to going on the Year 10 New Zealand cycling tour, as well as going to Italy, France and Germany for the Year 11 History Tour. The experiences I had at school allowed me to grow and develop new skills I previously would not have felt confident enough to do.
The School’s many programmes also helped me become more aware of the impact I have on others which developed my maturity and understanding of the world around me.
What has been your favourite subject to study this year? Why?
My favourite subject to study was Industrial Technology—Timber and Furniture, which involved the completion of a major work. I loved the freedom and independence in establishing a project I researched, designed and constructed. By completing a major work, I learnt to adjust my mindset to understand that mistakes were inevitable, but that these problems could be fixed, and that I had the ability to find these solutions. I developed confidence in my creative abilities as well as an appreciation for imperfection.
You were Sports Captain. Tell us more.
Coming to the School in Year 7 changed me significantly. I became eager to try new things, including taking up leadership opportunities. I also developed a desire to want to do well in all aspects of school.
The coaches I had for sport had a huge influence on my school life. I had many role models within the Sports Department which allowed me to become more confident in my leadership and sporting abilities.
One of the best memories of being a Sports Captain was going to the Junior Girls’ Touch Football Grand Final and watching the excitement and enthusiasm of the team—not only because they won but because they were enjoying themselves, which is why I love sport.
What did you learn from being a leader?
It was a huge learning experience that not only made me more confident but changed my mindset regarding the true role of a leader.
The main thing I learnt was that good leadership isn’t always defined by achieving big goals, but rather in showing up and demonstrating that you care.
I also recognised the influence being a senior student had on the younger students and the impact you could have on their mindset.
Finally, I became more confident, especially with the skill of public speaking which I used to really struggle with.
Did completing the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) help your senior studies?
The MYP’s learning skills that centred around self-responsibility dramatically influenced my senior studies with the HSC. The MYP gave me the skills to develop my critical thinking and depth of understanding across all subjects. While it was a difficult course it really helped add depth to my learning by setting me up with good study routines.
Do you have a few lasting memories of St Andrew’s Cathedral School or a story you would like to share?
The most memorable moment I had was on the Year 10 New Zealand cycle tour.
Being out in the countryside with a small group of people and no phones meant we all became really close to each other through our shared experiences. I remember the first day of cycling and being an hour in and ready to give up—it was a huge shock to the system—however having everyone around me, all in the same boat, meant we were able to help each other through any challenges.
I have never felt a better feeling than looking back at something you have accomplished and being so proud of yourself for persevering.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m a person who doesn’t like not having something to do, so my plans for next year, whilst constantly changing, would be to continue further study, get a job and travel.
