John Lyon stacking bench

Led by the Art department, Year 7 and 8 pupils were asked to work with Umut Yamac (OL 1998) to brainstorm an idea, in sculpture form, that could represent the 145 years of the school’s history. Milo H (8BG) came up with the brilliant idea to create something that looked like a stack of books. From this inspiration came the final product design for what’s called the John Lyon Stacking Bench. We are looking forward to its launch in the summer term to conclude the 145 anniversary celebrations.

This Art project, like many projects before, has been fully supported by the 1876 Fund, which was established to celebrate our history and enhance the educational experience beyond the curriculum for the benefit of our pupils. The 1876 Fund combines regular donations from parents, Old Lyonians, staff and governors, all of which have played a necessary part in enabling the school to complete various projects over the last five years. To continue doing this for the future, we need new donors to join the 1876 Fund so that we ensure it keeps growing and providing pupils with ongoing opportunities for new learning experiences at school.

We are offering the opportunity for donors to be recognised with the creation of the stacking bench. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss any ideas with us. Simply email Khadija Ansari, Alumni Relations and Development Office:khadija.ansari@johnlyon.org

What’s next?

This year, we are fundraising for the opportunity to create outdoor learning and recreational provisions for pupils with more exciting ways to enjoy the outdoor spaces – and we’d be grateful for your support. With new donations, the 1876 Fund can implement some of these projects sooner and enable pupils to use them by the end of the next academic year. As we hope to put the pandemic behind us, these spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor learning and socialising, become more valuable than ever!

How can you get involved?

We would like to ask you for a modest regular contribution – collectively these contributions make a great deal of difference in providing the additional support the school has benefitted from since its establishment in 1876. Through the extraordinary generosity of John and Joan Lyon, as well as various other benefactors over time, the school stands today stronger than ever. We hope and expect this philanthropic tradition to continue bolstering the school as it keeps going from strength to strength.

Giving to the 1876 Fund is an opportunity for you to get involved at whatever level you can afford. As a guide, a typical contribution is £18.76 per month but it is really about the spirit of participation rather than the amount. We are extremely grateful to have your support for pupils to experience and enjoy.