Megathlon Charity Day
Our annual Prep School Megathlon fundraiser took place this year with a slightly different focus for all the children in school.
Whereas the children would ordinarily raise funds for charities close to their hearts, this year they raised funds for matters close to their hearts.
In doing so, we marked the occasion of Sir David Attenborough's 100th birthday. Few people inspire such universal admiration and affection, and Sir David continues to encourage generations young and old to care more deeply for the natural world. Much like the amazing work of Dr Jane, through his narration, advocacy and lifelong commitment to conservation, he reminds us all of the importance of protecting the environment and the wildlife with which we share it. Inspired by his work and by his recent series, The Secret Garden, we felt that one of the best birthday presents we could offer would be to come together as a community and support the children in making a positive difference to the natural world around them.
On the final Friday before half term, the children combined fun and physical activity as they took part in approximately fifteen exciting outdoor challenges. Alice House pupils completed their activities during the morning, while Junior School pupils tackled theirs in the afternoon.
What made this year's Megathlon particularly special was that, rather than raising funds for external charities, the children raised money to enable them to become agents of change themselves. With more than 460 budding environmental champions taking part, the enthusiasm and sense of purpose shown by the children was inspiring. Families, friends and colleagues generously sponsored their efforts, helping to provide the resources needed to turn the children's ideas into reality.
In the lead-up to the event, teachers delivered activities and lessons designed to nurture curiosity about the natural world and highlight the abundance, diversity and interdependence of local wildlife. The children explored ways in which they could make a meaningful impact, whether by supporting minibeasts, birds, wild animals or the wider environment, both on our beautiful school campus and within their own communities.
The children were full of ideas about what they could grow, encourage, protect and create. By taking ownership of the projects and initiatives that mattered most to them, they demonstrated how even small actions can contribute to meaningful environmental change. The funds raised are now being used to enhance natural habitats and support wildlife, leaving a lasting legacy from a memorable and purposeful Megathlon. More photos will follow of what we grow and create!