The John Lyon School

Since September 2023, Rose Hardy, previously headmistress at Haberdashers’ Girls’ School in Elstree and before that, head of St Margaret’s School in Bushey for five years. She was the first female head of the co-ed sixth form at St Albans School

At 11+, 75 per cent of pupils come from local primaries (about 250 apply from over 100 schools for 100 places, with increasing numbers making John Lyon their first choice). During the entrance exam day, prospective pupils sit English and maths exams,

The majority head to universities across the UK, including around half to Russell Group. Popular courses include medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, engineering, architecture, law and politics, as well as more niche options like computer gameplay design

In 2024, 63 per cent 9-7 at GCSE; 12 per cent A* at A level (77 per cent A*-C).

More rounded and less single-mindedly academic than some of its competitors, with a broader range of ability. Inspiring and personalised learning are further draws for parents. ‘They have this ability to bring out the best in every child – they

About seven per cent of pupils receive some sort of learning support (typically for dyslexia), which is provided by two specialist teachers in the learning support department. There’s also a qualified EAL teacher. ‘My son had a few learning barriers

‘My son went into the school being sporty, but now he loves drama and debating too – they’ve developed skills and interests I didn’t think they ever would,’ gushed a parent, not untypically. While pupils are expected to drop some or all the extras at

Though the school overlooks some of the playing fields of Harrow, its own expansive 25 green acres are a five-minute minibus ride away, where there is also a floodlit MUGA pitch. Hockey, tennis, football and cricket are on the menu (‘not a school for

John Lyon School - established in 1876 to ‘educate local boys’ – became co-ed from 2021. lt forms part (along with Harrow School) of the John Lyon’s Foundation, and sits a street away from Churchill’s alma mater in leafy Harrow on the Hill. The two

Parents united in the view that the school does its utmost to develop every inch of potential and nip any barriers in the bud. Full-time counsellor and school nurse on site. Healthy mixing of year groups thanks to the vertical house system, sixth

Primarily local, although catchment is becoming wider with pupils now coming in from central London and outside London, notably Beds, Bucks and Herts. Excellent rail links (especially the Met line) make it particularly popular with those who live in

Good value. The John Lyon’s Charity now offers more means-tested bursaries. Scholarships available in academic, art, drama, music, STEAM, sport and all-rounder – include five per cent reduction in school fees.

A thriving school which provides a well-rounded, well-grounded education in a welcoming atmosphere. Great praise for the care and attention the pupils receive.