History

The Lilley and Stone School Charity has always had an enormously important impact on the town’s history since a charity was first set up in the 17th Century by John Lilley and Henry Stone. Originally it was to support the poor and young girls working in the already established Jersey School where they spun blue wool into jersey or worsted. Eventually the Jersey School closed and in 1910, a girls’ grammar school opened on the present site in the Grade II listed arts and crafts building on the London Road. Other school buildings were also provided by the Jersey School funds. So, after nearly 300 years, the trustees of John Lilley and Henry Stone had successfully accommodated their charity to the needs and times. In the field of education, this trust has continuously served the people of Newark.

The Lilley and Stone Girls’ School thrived for more than 60 years until the 11+ was abolished in the 1970s, at which point the school underwent a number of changes and was closed in 2016. Since that time the buildings have fallen into disrepair. The trustees have been unable to find a solution for its continued use as an educational resource for the young people of the town, who are the beneficiaries of the Lilley and Stone School Charity.

The Lilley and Stone Site in Peril Community Organisation (LASSIPCO) wish to ensure that the site goes on to live up to the ideals of its founders and continues to serve and benefit the community of Newark.