As Dad to Pearl, Flo & Gene who have all attended Outwood Grange, as did I a few years ago😁. I look forward to representing Outwood and the Out There Project by taking part in the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon on 10th May.

In my 50th year I have taken on the personal challenge of completing my second marathon and would appreciate your support in raising funds that will offer enriching, life-changing experiences for students who may otherwise have limited opportunities to participate.

For the young people who face adversity, whether due to having a disability, additional needs or limited means, the Out There initiative aims to develop the skills, confidence and belief needed to overcome barriers through driving positive change in the communities.

Outwood Out There's mission is simple: to inspire our pupils and empower them to drive positive change. It's not just about funding a volunteering program; it’s about empowering students.

The scale of the project is immense. Across our Trust, there are over 30,000 students who could potentially take part, with a staggering 33% coming from a disadvantaged background. For these young people, the structured, enriching experience of Outwood Out There alongside the experiential prize bank provide cultural capital and opportunities they might not otherwise access. It also provides many with the opportunity to develop the skills and confidence to become agents of change within their own communities.

In recent years, our students have been surrounded by a false narrative of division and difference. They have told us thought Pupil Voice that they want to get out there and make a difference but they need your support to help them be the change-makers they aspire to be.