Lizzie Lyons
1. When you were at Brighton & Hove High School, and what is your fondest memory of school?
I attended Brighton and Hove High School from 1993 to 1998. I have so many fond memories from those years, but one of my favourites has to be the November Fair. If I remember correctly, the basement classroom was transformed into a ghost train, which was such a fun and unique experience!
Another highlight was having the opportunity to choose ice skating as my PE option in Upper V, back when we still had a little ice rink in town. Additionally, our Bronze Duke of Edinburgh expedition and the trip to Boughrood were unforgettable experiences.
2. Who was your favourite teacher and why?
I had so many great teachers at Brighton and Hove High, but if I had to pick one, it would probably be my art teacher, Ms. Gilbert. She sparked my interest in art and creativity, which has stayed with me ever since.
3. What were the benefits of being in an all-girls school?
Having the opportunity to develop more confidence and feeling free to be yourself without gender stereotypes.
4. What did you want to be when you ‘grew-up’?
From a young age, I wanted to be a teacher. After my A-levels, I took a slight detour to follow my passion for photography, but eventually, I found my way back to teaching.
5. What do you do now, and what are the most rewarding and challenging parts of your job?
I’m now a teacher at Brighton Girls in the Prep school. I currently teach Year 5 and I’m also the Whole School Digital Lead. Covid has definitely been one of the most challenging parts of my teaching career, suddenly moving to teaching online was so strange but we survived! Every day is rewarding in teaching, it’s the small things as well as the big – knowing that you have had a hand in helping someone to understand something, solving friendship problems and hopefully making learning fun.
6. What are you most proud of so far?
I am most proud of becoming the Whole School Digital Lead. When I started teaching, I never imagined that I would end up focusing on EdTech. Initially, I took on an ‘IT liaison’ role, which set me on the digital path. Just before COVID hit, I was offered the opportunity to become the Prep School Digital Lead. This was quite daunting, but it allowed me to grow and adapt quickly to the changing educational landscape. This role has been incredibly rewarding, and I am proud of the impact I have made in integrating technology into our school’s curriculum.
7. What was the best piece of advice you were given whilst at Brighton?
I can’t remember a specific piece of advice but I do know that I was always encouraged to try my best at everything I did.
8. What advice would you give to your 18 year old self?
Don’t compare yourself to other people, travel more – see the world, worry less!
9. What book, film or piece of music would you recommend to your younger self and to your fellow alumnae?
Can I only pick one?
To my younger self, I would recommend Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss. I love the message in this book: “You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away! You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”
To my fellow alumnae, there are so many to choose from. One standout recommendation is Round Ireland with a Fridge by Tony Hawks (who also happens to be from Brighton). I was once told not to read it on a bus because I would be laughing out loud, and it did not disappoint.
10. How would you like to be remembered?
I would like to be remembered as someone who was kind, supportive of others, a good friend, and an inspiring teacher.