Sarah Haydon
1. When you were at Brighton & Hove High School, and what is your fondest memory of school?
I was at the school between 1972 and 1979. I loved everything about it but particularly playing netball and hockey including travelling round to play against other schools. I remain very competitive to this day whatever game it is I’m playing (even if I’m not very competent).
2. Who was your favourite teacher and why?
There were so many great teachers, but to pick one – Miss Bainbridge, even though it was other teachers before her that drew me to logic and mathematics. Deciding to do Maths and Further Maths at A-level was a simple choice for me, followed up with a maths degree – Miss Bainbridge brought the subject alive and really encouraged me to pursue it further.
3. What were the benefits of being in an all-girls school?
I never thought about it at the time – it just “was” – learning and working with mostly highly motivated girls who wanted to do well in whatever their chosen field. Discipline and diligence was the norm, I’m sure it still is, and would be more important than ever with so many distractions.
4. What did you want to be when you ‘grew-up’?
I didn’t know, only that it would be a well-paid job in London! I was a fully-funded student in the days of the direct grant, my single mum worked very hard to make ends meet. I wanted to make the most of the BHHS education that I had been lucky enough to have and make her proud. I know I did..
5. What do you do now, and what are the most rewarding and challenging parts of your job?
I’ve had three broad careers – first in commercial roles with BP Exploration, then as a Chief Financial Officer following emigration to New Zealand, and the last 15 years as a full time professional director with some of NZs leading companies. It’s all about the people you work with and what you can learn from them. Moving into semi-retirement in 2024, I now train directors in governance best practice with the Institute of Directors. This involves ongoing research, learning and development for me, which I really enjoy.
6. What are you most proud of so far?
Supporting the work of New Zealand Riding for the Disabled (NZRDA) for over 25 years at a local and national level, including chairing the Board, and developing their health and safety management system. Also being recognised for this work, becoming an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the King’s Birthday Honours in 2024..
7. What was the best piece of advice you were given whilst at Brighton?
I don’t remember anything specific, but what I can say is that I have always credited the education and opportunities for leadership and volunteering while at BHHS, together with a strong work ethic and the values instilled in me by my mother, have led to my successes in life.
8. What advice would you give to your 18 year old self?
Work hard, follow your dreams, and be kind to people along the way. More than anything be brave, seek out and take opportunities to make the most of the extraordinary education you’ve had.
9. What book, film or piece of music would you recommend to your younger self and to your fellow alumnae?
My favourites…. a classic film Casablanca, a classic book The Lord of the Rings and anything sung by Adele. All educational in their own way, make time to enjoy things just for the sake of enjoying them.
10. How would you like to be remembered?
For my work with NZRDA, as a good step-mother, friend and hard-working colleague.
Sarah Haydon
Class of 1979
