Government changes to sports premium for this academic year has meant a huge shake up in how funding is given to and used by schools. At present, schools are receiving around £8000, which is significantly lower than in previous years. We do not know the plans for future funding.

Mildmay Primary belong to one of the best Sports Partnerships in this country. Not only do they provide the children of Chelmsford many opportunities to access sports and games (whatever their skill set), but they have had the foresight to plan ahead. This means that despite not knowing their own long-term future, they have worked hard to give our children another academic year of events to attend. Unfortunately it won’t last.

Rowan is aware that funding changes are making it harder for us as a school to commit to attending as many sporting events as we would like and wants to do something about it.

Over the next eight weeks Rowan plans to “Cross the country for cross-country (and other sports) for Mildmay”.

He will be running, cycling and swimming 120km, (which is the approximate distance of crossing the country) finishing up on Christmas Day!! This is a monumental effort from a very dedicated young man who deserves our support and encouragement. More details and updates of his epic challenge will follow.

Rowan’s aim is to raise as much as he can so sports can continue for all pupils for as long as possible.

Maybe your child could join Rowan along the way for part of his quest to help keep him going in return. Any donations and encouragement welcome.

Thanks from Rowan Marshall & Friends of Mildmay Primary School (FOMPS)