A Tunbridge Wells secondary school is coming together to raise vital funds for Spurgeons charity, following the heartbreaking loss of two students last year.
In response to the tragedy, Spurgeons provided free on-site drop-in counselling for both students and staff, offering much-needed support at a time when the community needed it most. Now, Bennett Memorial School is determined to give something back.
Deputy Head, Lee Stoodley, is taking on the London Marathon to raise money for Spurgeons in honour of the two students the school lost. His challenge has inspired the wider school community to get involved too, with pupils, staff, families and supporters setting themselves running or walking challenges to help raise funds. Adding to the effort, three other members of staff have already completed the Hastings Half Marathon, proudly wearing Spurgeons vests.
Lee said:
‘As a school, we are so grateful for the help and care Spurgeons gave to us, and we would really like to say thank you by fundraising for them so that they can continue to do their brilliant work. We have decided therefore to ‘Run for Spurgeons’ as a school because running is inclusive and accessible, and there is a huge amount of research that shows it is really good for our mental health.
‘Every day, I work with students and families who are really struggling, and sometimes it’s a lot to manage, emotionally speaking. Running helps me decompress and clear my head, and I think it’s one of the best things you can do to help with good mental health.’
The initiative has become a powerful way for the school community to come together, not only to raise funds, but also to highlight the importance of mental health support and the positive impact of physical activity.
If you’d like to support Lee and the Bennett Memorial School community, please feel free to donate below.
