What do you remember of being a student at Hymers?

I remember quite a lot about my time at Hymers, from being one of the first intake of girls in the Junior School, right up to leaving after A Levels. I think I was a bit of a “cruiser” - always passing under the radar. A few teachers stood out for me though: Ms Stanyon, who was my form teacher in years 9-11, Dr Wilson from my A level years, Mrs (Spanish) Powell, whose love of Spain definitely rubbed off on me, Mr Testard, scary Mr Swinney… Overall, I have very good memories of my time at Hymers, though with hindsight I think I’d have got more out of my time at school if I hadn’t been so shy.

What did you do after leaving school?

I studied French and Spanish at the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, which included a year abroad in France (Grenoble) and Spain (Zaragoza). After graduating, I moved to Zaragoza and worked as an English teacher, then in a bar. I stayed there for three years, then I spent some time in Italy before moving to the French Alps to do a ski season. I ended up settling there for 18 years – working in a ski school, in a cheese shop and as a freelance translator – before moving back to Hull this summer.

What is your role at Hymers College?

I joined Hymers in September 2024, as a part-time French Assistant. My role involves helping the students with their French speaking skills so that they feel more comfortable having conversations in French and can discuss the topics they have to prepare for their exams. It’s really fun, because I remember being in their position so it’s nice to have come full-circle.

What are your memories about former teachers who are now your colleagues?

I don’t think any of the teachers I had are still here – apart from Mr Walmsley, but I don’t think he ever taught me – but I’ve spotted a few Old Hymerians around the school.

How does it feel to be back at the school?

It feels like home, to be honest. It’s all really familiar, even though a lot has changed. The ML block, where I spent most of my A Level years, is almost exactly the same. The main difference is being “on the other side” – I still feel a bit like a student here, so the first time I went up the stairs to the staff room was really strange, and I don’t think I’ll ever get used to being called “Miss”!