New College Durham Academies Trust brings together their family of schools to raise funds for Cancer Research UK
New College Durham Academies Trust (NCDAT) are uniting their seven schools, for an inspiring charity event on Friday 18th July. Staff, students and families from all seven schools within the trust are joining forces for a 26.2 mile marathon in aid of Cancer Research UK. The event, scheduled to begin at Consett Academy at 7am, will see participants journey through each of the NCDAT schools, culminating in a 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 will have an opening ceremony on Thursday 17th July with Castleside Primary School setting off to Consett Academy to deliver the baton that will be carried the entire 26.2 miles the next day. The marathon route will begin at Consett Academy and wind 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 will be set up at each school, creating a celebratory atmosphere to unite the community. At the final stop there will be ‘WellFest’, a celebration to congratulate all that have taken part and helped to raise money, this event will be 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 will encourage 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.”
The walk has been sponsored by some amazing local businesses that will support us with our efforts. Chartwells is providing snacks to all those taking on the walk. Geordie Signs have provided banners and t shirts for all volunteers, to help us raise as much awareness as possible for this event.
The trust is encouraging everyone in the community to get involved, donations can be made online via www.bit.ly/ncdatmarathon, and families are welcome to join our cheering stations on the day of the challenge. Updates, photos and stories will be shared on social media for the whole community to join in with this challenge, search New College Durham Academies Trust on Facebook.