Introduction
School Name: The John Lyon School
Description: Independent Boys’ School
Acceptance Ages: 11+
Overview
The John Lyon School formerly known as The Lower School of John Lyon is an independent boys’ school in Harrow on the Hill, London. The school was founded in 1876 by the Governors of Harrow School for the purpose of educating local boys.
Recently, half of all A-Level students achieved an A*/A, with the advantage from a broad curriculum which comprises Mathematics, English, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) French , Spanish, Latin, biology, chemistry, physics, art, drama, music, geography, history, religious studies / philosophy, PE and Games.
The co-curricular programme includes Archery, Cycling, Fives, Golf, Kayaking, Public Speaking and Culture, Learning Skills and Photography.
John Lyon fully deserves a reputation for providing an all-round education that combines theoretical and practical learning within a friendly and purposeful environment. Every student is shaped by a set of values which enables them to develop into the very best and most genuine version of himself.
Open Events for The John Lyon School 11 plus (11+) Entry
The next Open Morning is set in May. The event includes pupil-led tours of the school and gives you the opportunity to see aspects of academic, extra-curricular and co-curricular life.
You will also meet the teaching staff and Heads of department who will be open to answering any of your questions. The event includes a talk from the Head of the school, the Head Boy and other pupils, and ends with refreshments.
For more information, please visit the school’s website or reach out to Admissions.
The John Lyon School 11+ (11 Plus) Admissions
The John Lyon School is academically selective and all successful applicants are expected to have potential and achievement in at least one major academic area.
The admissions process will be evaluated academically, with the consideration of the character and attitude of an applicant.
Offers are made based on the successful performance in the examinations, interviews and group activities, and a positive reference from the applicant’s current school. Applicants who sit entrance tests are automatically considered for an academic scholarship.
Each year, the school offers a small number of means-tested bursaries to pupils who emphasize exceptional talent and potential. The deadline for bursary applications is in October of the school year prior to Year 7 entry.
For more information and to request a ‘Confidential Statement of Income’ application form, please contact Registrar Rebecca Davies.
The Academic Scholarships are awarded based on the applicant’s performance in the examination, school report and interview. Scholarships are also available for Music, Drama and Sport.
Scholarships normally cover 5% of tuition fees per year. Music, Drama and Sport Scholarship application forms are downloadable on the school’s website or can be requested from the Admissions Office.
The John Lyon School 11 Plus (11+) Exam Format
The John Lyon School 11+ entrance assessment consists of the following papers:
- English is for 60 minutes.
- Mathematics is for 60 minutes. (Calculators are not allowed)
- Group activity and interview is for 120 minutes.
English paper evaluates the applicant’s comprehension and writing skills, with a focus on spelling, punctuation and grammar. The test aims to identify pupils who are confident with language and in their reading, comprehension and writing.
Mathematics paper evaluates problem-solving abilities and arithmetic skills and requires knowledge of all topics from the Mathematics Key Stage 2 National Curriculum. The test aims to identify pupils who can develop clear and concise solutions rather than just reach the correct answer.
Applicants will take a series of group activities, which evaluates the response to different problems and practical circumstances which helps to identify the ‘teachability’ of potential Lyonians and their capacity to contribute to the school’s community.
Furthermore, all applicants are interviewed by an academic member of the Senior Team and will be asked to talk about a topic, which may be academic, based on current affairs or similar. The interview assists the school in getting to know him better while he discusses his interests and aspirations.
