NCDAT Together For A Cure - Friday 18th July

Our seven schools united for a six month campaign uniting to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

All schools hosted a variety of exciting events and activities leading to the grand finale - a Walking Marathon from Consett Academy to Wellfield School, visiting each school along the way.

Volunteers

Meet the inspiring volunteers taking on the walking marathon challenge alongside their schools! Each of them brings a unique story and a powerful reason for lacing up their walking boots - from honouring loved ones, to promoting physical and mental well-being, to raising funds for a cause close to their hearts. These individuals are not only pushing their own limits but also serving as role models for our students, showing the power of perseverance, teamwork, and community spirit. These stories highlight how one challenge can unite people for a greater purpose and spark lasting change.

Meet a few of our volunteers here -

NCDAT Together For a Cure Volunteers

Training

In preparation for the big day, our volunteers have been dedicating their time to regular training walks - turning bank holidays and weekends into opportunities for fitness, focus and fun. Step by step, they're building endurance and proving that progress comes from consistency!

NCDAT Volunteer Training

Friday 18th July - Our Walking Marathon

New College Durham Academies Trust (NCDAT) are united their seven schools, for an inspiring charity event on Friday 18th July. Staff, students and families from all seven schools within the trust joined forces for a 26.2 mile marathon in aid of Cancer Research UK. The event, began at Consett Academy at 7am, and saw participants journey through each of the NCDAT schools, culminating at the celebratory finish at Wellfield School.

The idea of the marathon was conceived as a way to bring the schools together in support of a cause that affects many families across their community. Cancer Research UK, is renowned for its ground breaking work in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment, and is a charity close to the hearts of many within the community and for that reason it is NCDAT’s chosen charity. With the support of staff and students across the schools, the trust hopes to raise substantial funds that will contribute to ongoing cancer research and support for those battling the disease.

The marathon had an opening ceremony on Thursday 17^th July with Castleside Primary School setting off to Consett Academy to deliver the baton that was carried the entire 26.2 miles the next day. The marathon route began at Consett Academy and wound its way to Catchgate Primary School, North Durham Academy, Beamish Primary School, Pelton Community Primary School and finishing at Wellfield School in Wingate. Cheering zones and refreshments were set up at each school, creating an amazing celebratory atmosphere that united the community. At the final stop there was ‘WellFest’, a celebration to congratulate all that have taken part and helped to raise money, this event was open to the public between 3pm-5pm at Wellfield School to celebrate the end of the marathon as well as the end of the school year.

Whether walking the full route or relaying between schools, this event encouraged a sense of comradery, with staff and students forming teams to support each other along the way.

Linda Rodham, CEO, New College Durham Academies Trust explains; “The goal is not just to raise funds, but also to raise awareness and inspire. Cancer touches the lives of so many in our community, and this campaign is our way of taking action together.”

Raffle Donations

Thank you to all of our community businesses that donated prizes to our staff raffle, to help us raise as much money as possible for Business Beats Cancer North East.