Meet Lily Marriott, our Schools Programme Coordinator

Before joining TimeGivers as Schools Programme Coordinator, Lily was a qualified teacher. Her background in education has proven invaluable in shaping and strengthening our school partnerships, bringing a deep understanding of both young people and the realities faced by teachers.

Over the past six months, Lily has played a central role in developing and delivering our schools programme. From refining partnership processes and policies to supporting safeguarding training and building strong relationships with schools, her work has helped ensure our delivery is both impactful and practical.

This term alone, Lily led 23 school events - from litter picks and food bank sorting to care home arts and crafts sessions. Her leadership, positivity and determination shine through in everything she does.

Lily is a deeply valued member of the TimeGivers team, bringing energy, insight and structure to our growing programme. As we continue to expand and welcome more teachers into our network, her guidance has been key in ensuring we deliver the best possible experience for schools, young people and community partners.

From Inspiration to Action

Lily shared what first drew her to TimeGivers:

“I was inspired to join TimeGivers after watching a video of Kate on the TimeGivers website. Not only did it make me want to go out and start volunteering immediately (!) but I was also really moved by her story.”

“Hearing about her personal journey with volunteering and what led her to create TimeGivers made the mission feel very real and meaningful to me.”

For Lily, the organisation’s purpose was immediately clear:

“Helping others is when I feel happiest so being part of something centred around giving time and support to those who really need resonated with me. So then I emailed Kate straight away!”

Growing into the Role

Lily described her first months at TimeGivers as a period of learning, growth and support:

“I have had a really positive journey so far as Programme Coordinator. Initially, the focus was on learning the role, understanding how the programme works and building my confidence.”

“I have learnt a huge amount from my team members who have been incredibly supportive and generous with their time and knowledge.”

Now more confident in her role, she reflects on the scale of her recent work:

“6 months in, my confidence has grown significantly and by the end of this term I will have led 23 trips, ranging from litter picks and sorting & packing at food banks to arts and crafts sessions in care homes. It has been a very rewarding 3 months!”

A Standout Moment

One project that stood out for Lily was the LMP Action Hampers event, where students from four secondary schools came together to support families in need.

“We worked with four secondary schools to pack hampers for vulnerable young people and families in the Hammersmith and Fulham Borough. Together, the students prepared around 1,100 ‘Winter Festive Fun Bags’ which were distributed through local youth groups, family hubs and schools.”

“The bags included fresh ingredients for two meals, along with additional food items, festive treats and activities for young people.”

She reflected on the impact of seeing students involved in meaningful, hands-on work:

“I particularly enjoyed seeing the students work together and take pride in packing the bags. Seeing the finished hampers ready to go was very impactful.”

“After the event, we received feedback stating that ‘the impact these hampers have on families is massive,’ which felt very special (and quite emotional) to read.”

Skills, Growth and Learning

Lily’s teaching background has played a key role in her success at TimeGivers:

“My teaching experience has given me the confidence and skills to communicate with children and young people in a fun, engaging and age-appropriate way during our sessions.”

“My experience working across different schools has given me a strong understanding of the education system and the pressures faced by teachers.”

She also highlighted how the role has helped her develop new strengths:

“I have discovered a few new strengths over the last few months, the biggest being my ability to coordinate logistics and manage the operational side of the role effectively.”

Looking Ahead

Lily is excited about what’s to come:

“I am looking forward to experiencing my first Giving Back Day! I have watched the video of one on YouTube and it looks like a crazy, fun, jam-packed day so I am excited for this!"

“I am also looking forward to continuing to develop and build my skillset. I never thought I would be working outside the classroom so it has been a great opportunity to learn new skills and I feel proud of the growth I have made so far.”

Lily’s journey reflects the energy, care and expertise that drive TimeGivers’ schools programme forward. Her work continues to strengthen our partnerships and create meaningful, well-supported experiences for young people across London.

Originally featured in our March 2026 newsletter, this spotlight celebrates the people behind the scenes who make our impact possible.

TimeGivers Team Spotlight: Lily Marriott, Schools Programme Coordinator | March 2026