On Saturday 25th May 2024, we remembered Lilya on what would have been her 18th birthday and celebrated her life with an ‘intent to open’ launch event. The event gave family, friends, and supporters an opportunity to visit the intended first premises for The Lilya Lighthouse Education Trust Ltd.
The event started with a ceremonial cutting of turquoise ribbon (Lilya’s favourite colour) to represent an official opening. The ribbon was cut by Lilya’s friends, brother, and nephew.
Helen Jones (Lilya’s Mum) welcomed everyone and spoke about Lilya as the inspiration for The Lilya Lighthouse Education Trust Ltd. Special thanks were given to Sarah Hutchinson at St Andrews with Castle Gate URC for working so closely with the trust to make the dream of opening a school a reality. Thanks were also given to friends at Nottingham Quakers where the trust hopes to open a second site.
Rev’d Chris Ford, the minister at St Andrews with Castle Gate URC shared a few words on behalf of the Elders' Council about why they are keen to support the trust to be able to use a part of the their premises to open Alternative Provision in Nottingham.
Richard Gaunt, who coordinates the Junior Church and Youth Group, unveiled a bird table with the support of Lilya's nephew. The bird table, which was acquired in memory of Lilya and her love of birds (chickens in particular), will be visible from the classroom window.
Please use the following links to read a copy of the speeches led by Helen (middle), Debra (left) and Mica (right).
Helen Jones (Lilya's Mum, Co-Founder and Member of The Lilya Lighthouse Education Trust)
Dr. Debra Costley (Chair of Trustees at The Lilya Lighthouse Education Trust)
Mica Coleman Jones (Co-Founder and Trustee of The Lilya Lighthouse Education Trust)
Following speeches, attendees enjoyed brief tours of the rooms which have undergone some decoration in preparation for opening, including new carpets, blinds, and repainted walls. Thanks were given to Ricky Starbuck for leading on this project and to those that have made kind donations to cover the costs of the work.
