The Hardship Fund was created shortly after the coronavirus lockdown was announced in March 2020 and it became apparent that several families were suddenly and temporarily unable to meet the fee in full.

Following an appeal from the Head to all Lyonians (reproduced below), we were able to raise over £40,000 to help those families, within a very short period of time.  

As the restrictions due to the coronavirus tighten once again, we encourage all Lyonians to consider donating to the Hardship Fund.

Friendship is so important at John Lyon.  There are many lasting friendships formed at John Lyon, between pupils, staff and parents.  The OLs who return to John Lyon 60 years on (and more!) to see each other are testament to the strength of the friendships formed through John Lyon, which endure the harder times as well as the good.

We are very grateful to our friends of the School who have supported the Hardship Fund and allowed pupils to continue their education uninterrupted at the School and importantly with their friends.  We are particularly touched by the very generous donations from Old Lyonians whose families faced similar challenges when they were at School.



The Head's original letter to Lyonians in May is below.

Dear Lyonian,
 
I write to seek your help.
 
Inevitably, the current Coronavirus Covid-19 situation is having an impact on the School and our community.
 
As you know, the School takes pride in educating boys from a wide range of family backgrounds, and indeed some from very modest homes. We are taking steps to help everyone as much as we can in these difficult times. Tuition fees for the Summer Term are being adjusted, with there being no physical school operating. We are providing remote education for all boys from home via an online learning platform, which involves all the teaching staff and boys following their set timetable.
 
However, even with these measures some families are already experiencing significant financial hardship because of the current crisis, and some existing pupils will sadly be unable to continue at John Lyon.
 
I should therefore ask if you might be able to help the John Lyon family, by making a donation, or even perhaps considering yourself supporting one pupil for one Term. We are setting up an emergency hardship fund to help our families through these unprecedented times. Any contributions, of any amount, would be very warmly received and would greatly help these pupils in their hour of need.
 
Please donate online here or, alternatively, you may wish to contact Suzannah Chirnside, or myself directly, if you would like to discuss further how you may be able to help.
 
With my best wishes to you at this time.
 
Yours sincerely,
 
Miss Katherine Haynes