The Bursar of The John Lyon School in Harrow has been elected head of the organisation representing bursars at the country’s top independent schools.

Nicholas Marten was voted in as Chairman of the Independent Schools’ Bursars Association (ISBA) at its conference in Edinburgh after serving for two years as Vice-Chairman. It is the first time a bursar at The John Lyon School has been appointed to the top job.

“It’s a great honour and it’s also an exciting time to be in such a senior role, which involves meetings with the Government and senior figures from the education world,” said Mr Marten.

“My main thrust as Chairman will include expanding the membership of the association and improving the professional development opportunities for bursars. I will also be looking at the impact of recent changes in charity law that require independent schools, as charities, to demonstrate that they are acting for the benefit of the public.”

Bursars are responsible for anything non-academic at a school, including finance, personnel and health & safety. At The John Lyon School, for example, Mr Marten’s responsibilities include overseeing a ten-year building development programme: the first stage of this – the construction of a new science block – is currently underway.

The John Lyon School’s Headmaster, Kevin Riley, said: “This appointment is a testament to the high regard in which Nicholas is held nationally. It’s a tremendously important role and I have no doubt that Nicholas will be an excellent Chairman.”

Mr Marten joined The John Lyon School as Bursar in September 2006. Originally from Somerset, he worked first in local government before first becoming a bursar 19 years ago. His hobbies include sailing and supporting London Irish rugby.

Issued on behalf of The John Lyon School