After a year often spent apart or in socially distanced bubbles, Oakham’s entire Lower School community was delighted to join together to participate in a charity fundraising walk around Doncaster Close.
Raising money for LIV Village, the event saw girls and boys from all four Houses, together with their teachers – many of whom were sporting fancy dress for the occasion – challenge themselves to run or walk their way around Doncaster Close as many times as possible within three hours. In total the children covered an incredible 2,500 kilometres, with some pupils pushing themselves to run between 20 and 25 kilometres.
Housemaster of Sargants, Ashley Denman, who organised the event, said: “The afternoon was a great success. I am so proud of the children and my colleagues – the individual and collective effort they put in was quite simply amazing.”
Ashley continues: “LIV Village is a great charity that restores orphaned and vulnerable children’s lives in South Africa and which we have supported over many years. I am delighted that we have been able to continue to support it this year via this challenge.”
This year’s charity event follows on the back of the highly successful Fab 4 Charity Challenge that took place during lockdown last year, where pupils raised over £8,000 for Rainbows charity and LIV Village. It also complemented this year’s Lower School Prize Giving and Sports Day, which gave everyone the opportunity to round off the year with a fun celebration and picnic before taking to the athletics track for some healthy sporting competition.
Head of Lower School, Adrian Morris, said: “I congratulate everyone on their efforts in the charity walk. This event really showcases how education at Oakham is about more than just sitting in a classroom. Giving of one’s time and effort to help other people is something we encourage all our Oakhamians to do. What can be better than enjoying yourself while giving to charity at the same time?”
As well as musical motivation courtesy of Housemistress of Lincoln House, Michelle Northcott, who was the resident DJ at the event, there were snacks and drinks on hand to keep everyone fuelled and keep those tired legs moving. In total the children completed over 2,500 kilometres and have so far raised over £2,500.
To donate and find out more about LIV Village Orphanage, click here.
