The John Lyon School
Middle Road, Harrow, HA2 0HN
Middle Road, Harrow, HA2 0HN
Pupils
865
Ages
11 - 18
Gender
Boys
Type
Secondary
Head Teacher
Mrs R Hardy
Boarding / Day
Day
Fees
£4,000 to £7,632
ISC Associations
HMC, IAPS, AGBIS, ISBA
Religion
Non-denominational
Bursaries
Available
The John Lyon School, located in Harrow, has a rich history dating back to 1876 and has recently transitioned to a co-educational model, welcoming girls for the first time in 2021. This change, along with its amalgamation with Quainton Hall School, has broadened the school’s appeal and increased its intake diversity. The school is known for its academic selectivity, with a rigorous admissions process that includes exams in English, Maths, and other subjects, as well as interviews to assess potential and enthusiasm for learning.
At the 11+ entry level, a significant portion of students come from local primary schools, with the school becoming a preferred choice for many families. The admissions process is designed to identify students who are not only academically capable but also eager to engage in a busy and active school life. The school expands its intake at age 13, drawing students from local preparatory schools, and offers occasional mid-year admissions and new joiners into the sixth form, provided they meet the academic requirements.
The school boasts a strong academic record, with a majority of students progressing to universities across the UK, including prestigious Russell Group institutions. Popular courses among graduates include Medicine, Dentistry, Engineering, and Law, with some students pursuing niche fields like Computer Gameplay Design and Fine Art. The school provides tailored university advice, including specialised preparation for Oxbridge and STEP classes for aspiring mathematicians.
In terms of teaching and learning, the school offers a more rounded educational experience compared to some of its competitors, focusing on nurturing talent and encouraging students to reach their full potential. Small class sizes ensure personalised attention, and the school offers a broad curriculum that includes languages such as French, Spanish, and Latin, as well as a comprehensive STEAM programme. The school has reduced the number of GCSEs to nine, allowing students to explore beyond the standard curriculum and pursue additional qualifications like the HPQ.
The school is recognised for its digital innovation, being named an EdTech top 50 school. This commitment to technology ensured a seamless transition to online learning during the pandemic, with a balanced approach that included physical education and social activities. The school maintains a strong partnership with parents, adapting its approach based on feedback to enhance the learning experience.
Extra-curricular activities are a significant aspect of school life, with a wide range of options available to students. The arts are particularly well-supported, with drama and music being popular choices. The school hosts an annual musical production and offers opportunities for students to work with professional theatre companies. Music is continually improving, with numerous ensembles and links to prestigious institutions like the London Chamber Orchestra.
Sport is another area of strength, with extensive facilities and a variety of activities on offer, including hockey, tennis, and cricket. The school has a tradition of success in competitions and encourages a healthy lifestyle among its students.
The school’s ethos and heritage are deeply rooted in its history, forming part of the John Lyon’s Foundation alongside Harrow School. Recent developments have modernised the facilities, creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere where students are known by name.
Pastoral care is a priority, with a full-time counsellor and school nurse on site. The school promotes inclusivity and diversity, with a strong pupil voice and minimal bullying. Discipline is maintained through a clear code of conduct, and the school offers a bespoke Parenting Teenagers course to support families.
The school community is primarily local, but its catchment area is expanding, attracting students from central London and beyond. The school offers good value, with means-tested bursaries and scholarships available in various disciplines.
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Quainton Hall School is a co-educational day school located in Harrow, Middlesex, catering for pupils aged 2 to 13. Established in 1897, the school has a rich history and is recognized as a Church of England educational charity. The school aims to foster both academic and personal development within a caring Christian ethos, preparing students for admission to their chosen senior schools. Currently, the school has a total enrollment of 167 pupils, with a diverse community reflecting the local area, including children from various European backgrounds.
The school’s educational framework is designed to ensure that pupils achieve good standards in their learning and personal development. From the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) onwards, students demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning, which is supported by good to excellent teaching practices. The curriculum is broad and balanced, allowing for a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities that nurture pupils' talents and interests. Regular assessments are conducted to monitor progress, although there is room for improvement in utilizing assessment data to tailor individual learning experiences.
Pupils at Quainton Hall School exhibit excellent personal development, characterized by a strong sense of community and mutual respect. The school promotes a supportive environment where pupils can take on responsibilities and engage in various leadership roles. The relationships between staff and students are positive, fostering open communication and a sense of safety. The school places a high priority on safeguarding and welfare, ensuring that all necessary policies and procedures are in place to protect pupils.
Governance at Quainton Hall School is effective, with a governing body that provides oversight and support for the school’s operations. Governors are well-trained and possess a diverse range of expertise, which they leverage to fulfill their responsibilities. They maintain a clear vision for the school’s future and are committed to upholding its Christian ethos while ensuring financial stability and resource allocation.
Leadership and management within the school are strong, with a dedicated senior management team that supports high standards of achievement and personal development. The school has made significant strides in transitioning to a fully co-educational model, ensuring that all pupils receive a quality education that meets their needs. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding and welfare, and the school has established effective systems for monitoring and improving educational provision.
The quality of teaching throughout the school is generally good, with some excellent examples where lessons are engaging and well-paced. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and create a positive learning atmosphere. However, there are instances where the specific needs of all pupils are not fully addressed, leading to slower progress for some. Marking and feedback practices vary, and there is a need for consistency in providing clear guidance for improvement.
Pupils’ achievements are commendable, with many progressing to selective independent senior schools, often securing scholarships. The school’s commitment to fostering creativity is evident in the various artistic and sporting opportunities available to students. The curriculum is regularly reviewed to ensure it remains relevant and effective, with a focus on developing critical thinking and independent research skills.
The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is a key strength of Quainton Hall School. The school’s Christian ethos is reflected in its inclusive and nurturing environment, where pupils are encouraged to explore moral issues and develop a strong sense of right and wrong. The school promotes cultural diversity and understanding, providing pupils with a well-rounded education that prepares them for life in a multicultural society.
Overall, Quainton Hall School is a thriving educational institution that successfully combines academic rigor with personal development. The school’s commitment to high standards, strong governance, and effective leadership creates an environment where pupils can flourish. With ongoing efforts to enhance assessment practices and ensure consistent teaching quality, the school is well-positioned to continue its tradition of excellence in education.
Last Updated: 8 October 2024
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