Staff set to take on challenges to support student-led community action
Outwood Grange Academies Trust Staff Set for Epic Weekend of Challenges to Support ‘Out There’ programme
This coming weekend, almost 80 members of staff from Outwood Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) will swap their classrooms and offices for hiking boots and running shoes to tackle two challenges and raise vital funds for the Trust's flagship community action programme, Outwood Out There.
Over the weekend of Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 June, staff from across the family of schools will push their physical limits to support the student-led programme that transforms communities across the North of England.
The weekend's fundraising efforts will be split into two massive events. First, on Saturday 13 June, a team of 66 staff members will take on the legendary Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. The trek requires walkers to conquer the summits of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough, covering 24 miles of rugged terrain and over 5,000 feet of ascent, all inside a demanding 12-hour target window.
Then, on Sunday 14 June, a second wave of 13 staff members will keep the momentum alive, hitting the streets for the Leeds 10K. Starting outside the University of Leeds, runners will push through the city's vibrant streets, cheered on by spectators.
All funds raised across the weekend will directly benefit ‘Out There’, a Trust-wide programme that empowers young people aged 5-18 to get outside the classroom and spearhead their own community action projects. From bridging generational gaps by visiting local care homes to building inclusive environments for children with physical differences and cleaning up local green spaces, Outwood Out There gives pupils the autonomy and resources to tackle real-world issues right on their doorsteps.
Julie Slater, chief executive principal at OGAT, said: “It’s fantastic to see so many colleagues dedicating their own time to fundraise for ‘Out There’. This truly demonstrates an exceptional level of commitment to our students and school communities. While the Three Peaks challenge, covering 24 miles and tackling three major climbs, is bound to test us both physically and mentally (and I admit, I have a few nerves myself!), I know it will be an incredibly rewarding experience. I have no doubt that both events will be filled with fun and a tremendous team spirit.”
Donations to the ‘Out There’ programme can be made via JustGiving. They will go directly toward funding student projects and building the ‘prize bank’ that celebrates youth-led community achievements at the annual Out There Awards.
To find out more about sponsoring the initiative, please visit the Outwood Out There webpage.
