As a senior leader at a secondary school in Devon, I don't just read the statistics—I see the reality every single day. The struggles our young people face, particularly now, are immense: mental health pressures, hidden poverty, and the fear of exploitation. This isn't a problem happening somewhere else; it's happening right here in our community.

This mission is deeply personal for me as the proud Head of Brunel Bears House. I am incredibly proud that The Children’s Society is our official House Charity. Their work—protecting young people from harm and ensuring they have access to vital support—is directly relevant to the lives of our students.

The greatest inspiration for this run comes from my students. Seeing the struggles that many of them face every day, and witnessing their extraordinary resilience, inspires me to give back. I truly believe every child has infinite potential. Sometimes, due to circumstances beyond their control, we just need to give them every chance to achieve it.

My goal in running the London Marathon is to be an inspiration for our children, showing them firsthand that with commitment and support, anything is possible.

Running the London Marathon has always been a lifelong dream. To finally pursue this goal with the incredible support of the students at school, and for a charity so fundamentally linked to our context, is an honour.

Across the country, young people are suffering unseen and unheard. At The Children’s Society, they know a brighter future is possible. They make sure young people can access the care they need most and campaign for a world where every child can grow up safe, happy, and hopeful.

Mile by mile, together we can build a society for all children. Please sponsor me and join the Brunel Bears in supporting this life-changing work. Your donation is a direct investment in the resilience and potential of children who need it most.