Ava, a friend to all our swimmers, experienced a profound loss when her father, a Royal Marine, passed away. In her time of need, she was supported by Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a charity that stands beside children who have lost a parent who served in the Armed Forces. Losing a parent is one of the most difficult things a child can face. When that parent served in the military, the sense of loss can be even deeper, often leaving children feeling cut off from the unique community and identity they once shared. Scotty’s Little Soldiers helps restore that connection, offering vital bereavement support and ensuring these children are never left to cope alone.

The charity has pledged to support more than 1000 children by 2030 and has made it their mission to ensure every bereaved British Forces child has access to the very best care.

Our pupils, aged 12 and 13, have been training hard for the momentous challenge of swimming the English Channel this summer, and their perseverance and dedication to supporting their friends and fellow young people is nothing short of inspiring. Please help us support our wonderful pupils and all the vital work Scotty’s Little Soldiers does every day.