Going the extra mile for student community action programme
Three members of staff and a parent are preparing to lace up their running shoes for this weekend's Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and Leeds Half Marathon. The group of four is running to raise vital funds for ‘Outwood Out There,’ an award-winning initiative that empowers students to lead transformative community action projects.
The team will take to the streets of Leeds to represent Outwood Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) on Sunday, May 10th, to support a programme that has already seen thousands of young people across the Outwood Family of Schools deliver projects ranging from revitalising green spaces to supporting local food banks and care homes.
The challenge will see three full-distance runners: Adam Appleby (Head of Performing Arts, Outwood Academy Freeston), Savannah Giles (Office Manager, Outwood Academy Kirkby), and Outwood parent Jonny Mullooly. They are joined by Greg Wadsworth, Vice Principal at Outwood Academy City Fields, who will be tackling the Half Marathon.
‘Outwood Out There’ was launched to redefine the role of young people in society, based on feedback from students wanting to "get out there", change perceptions and make a difference. The programme focuses on six key areas: building relationships, sustainability, community wellbeing, inclusivity, safety, and innovation.
Jonny Mullooly said:
“As a former student and a dad to three Outwood pupils, I am incredibly proud to represent the Trust in my 50th year. Taking on the Marathon is a personal challenge, but the real goal is supporting the Out There project. For students facing adversity or limited means, this initiative provides the cultural capital and confidence they need to become change-makers in their own communities.”
Julie Slater, chief executive principal at OGAT, added:
“Our students have shown incredible leadership and resilience through their community projects. Running the Leeds Half Marathon is a way for our colleagues and parents to show that same commitment. Every pound raised goes directly toward providing students with the resources, from project materials to experience-based prizes, helping them turn their ideas for social good into a reality.”
The 'Out There' initiative relies on fundraising and corporate sponsorship to remain accessible to all 30,000 students, particularly those in disadvantaged areas. The Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, inspired by the late rugby league legend, is known for its challenging route and incredible atmosphere of community spirit; values that mirror the mission of Out There.
If you want to support the runners, donations can be made through JustGiving.
For more information on the initiative or to find out how to get involved with Out There, please visit outthere.outwood.com
