Meet our staff
Our College staff
At Taylors College Sydney, you’ll learn from academics who know what it takes to achieve success at the University of Sydney. They’ll support you all the way to your undergraduate degree.
Alison Baines
College Director – Taylors College Sydney
I have a wide range of leadership experience in international schools and pathway colleges, prior to this I taught extensively in Economics and Business.
Taylors is one of the leading international pathway colleges in Sydney offering the opportunity to progress to the highly prestigious University of Sydney. Our experienced, committed and caring teachers and support staff are here to make this possible. Our aim is to provide the best student experience not only through quality education and care but offering a wide range of other experiences to build the academic and interpersonal skills necessary for success at university and beyond.
I look forward to welcoming you as part of the Taylors College community.
Hossein Davari
Director of Learning, the University of Sydney Foundation Program
As Director of Learning, my role is to help you achieve your full potential by supporting both your academic and welfare needs, ensuring your learning experience is an enjoyable and successful one.
Over its rich history as the oldest university in Australia, the University of Sydney alumni have made some significant and enduring contributions to Australia and the world. Studying at Taylors College Sydney not only provides you with a pathway to the University of Sydney, but also puts you on the path to making your own contribution to your field of study and the greater good in the future.
The world of work is now a global one, so studying at Taylors College Sydney will enable you to have contacts all around the world thanks to the 40+ different nationalities of students who study with us. The cross-cultural knowledge that you gain is immeasurable; immerse yourself in the culture and enjoy your learning.
Rebecca James
Associate Director of Transition, Taylors College Sydney
I have worked in international education in various countries for over 20 years and am passionate about the opportunities and lifelong learning it facilitates. As Careers Coordinator and HAPP Student Adviser I am responsible for the smooth transition of our students into university. In addition to this, we run Careers workshops, the Career Ahead program and our new Taylors College Volunteer Group. Liaising with the University of Sydney (Usyd) and promoting events which engage the students and expand their knowledge base is also of great importance as they embark on the next stage of their international education journey.
In 2016 the High Achiever’s Preparation Program (HAPP) was introduced at the Sydney Campus. The program has enjoyed excellent results and the students are motivated to succeed. The Student Ambassador Mentoring Program teams HAPP students with USyd mentors and allows students to establish enriching relationships and develop a comprehensive understanding of campus life. All of our students are encouraged to be the very best that they can be – successful, committed, engaged, empathetic and self-aware – in order to meet the challenges they will face in this rapidly globalising and highly competitive world.
Tina Beltsos
Director Student Services & Experience
I have extensive experience in International Education, working as a teacher and academic manager as well as leading student services and experience teams. I have a passion for seeing students succeed not only in the classroom but also gain skills that help shape them as connected global citizens.
In my role as Director of Student Services and Experience I am here to ensure you get the most out of your experience at Taylors college, by supporting you through the exciting times and the more difficult experiences we may face throughout our educational journey. We have numerable measures in place to help you succeed no matter what your circumstances are.
Taylors College will offer you so many wonderful experiences and opportunities to gain new skills and new friends. We look forward to welcoming you to Taylors College Sydney.