Keeping with the tradition of the Head Boy & Old Lyonian Lunch, Mr Gary Grant was welcomed to the School by Jash Gandhi (Head Boy) and Tyler Stanley Owusu (Senior Prefect, Old Lyonians).

Gary Grant is widely recognised as one of the United Kingdom's leading licensing barristers. He is top-ranked in both of the leading independent legal directories (Legal 500 and Chambers Guide).

Following a tour of the School, during which Gary saw several lessons in action, he, along with VIth Form students, enjoyed a fascinating talk by visiting mathematician Colin Wright on the theory and practice of juggling, as part of the Student Union program.

Lunch was served in the Lyonian Room at Le Beau House and students from Years 9 to 12 joined Gary, Katherine Haynes, Jash, Tyler, and Deputy Head Boys for a lively discussion on life at School and his experiences of working in the legal profession.

Thoughts on the visit by Tyler Stanley Owusu (Senior Prefect, Old Lyonians)

“On Friday 23^rd September 2016, Gary Grant, renowned barrister and former John Lyon student, visited the school for the first time in 30 years. As expected much has changed since he was a student; new buildings, new teaching methods and everything has gone digital, but many ideals remain.

Over lunch, Mr Grant was asked a number of questions particularly about his chosen profession, in particular one struck a chord with me.

Mr Grant was asked: "What characteristics would you recommend a potential lawyer possess?"

He replied that two key characteristics were Integrity and Drive. A barrister who does not have integrity will not be trusted, and a barrister that cannot be trusted will not be successful. The drive is what will get you into work every morning and will help you overcome the inevitable obstacles that will come your way and to allow you to perform at your best.

Mr Grant highlighted the fact that these characteristics are key to excelling in almost every career. The importance of staying cool under pressure was also mentioned, just like drive and integrity – this element is essential to one’s success.

Mr Grant was also asked what he took away with him from his time here at the School. He responded that whilst your time in school may represents a small portion of the long road you have ahead, if you work hard enough, that long road can end up being much smoother.

I was delighted to have the opportunity to meet Mr Grant and for him to take his time to visit the school, provided us all with an excellent insight into what the future may hold and how we can excel in whatever career path we pursue.”