What a supreme fund-raiser!

All students at an Oldham special school took part in a supreme marathon spread over two days - walking more than 100 miles to raise funds for a new school bus.

Hollinwood Academy provides an educational offer for children and young people with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN).

Outdoor education plays a key role in the school curriculum offer and has such a positive impact on the amazing students and families.

At the moment, all of the 275 students currently access Outdoor Ed once a week, but to sustain this, the school needed a new bus.

And they raised an incredible £8,600!

Head teacher Mrs Laura Millard said: “The children, young people and staff have walked over 100 miles and I think we had some tired KS4 students on Thursday as they walked from Uppermill back to school - 10.6 miles.

"Even the general public as they were walking through Lydgate donated to our sponsored walk.

“A massive thank you goes to Mr Heap and his team for organising and co-ordinating the event.

"A huge well done to our amazing children and young people for taking part in the event, but the biggest gratitude goes to our families, community and the sponsors.

"Without your support, this event would not have been possible - thank you!

“We are still in the process of collecting and counting the money and I know some families are still bringing this in, but we are amazed already with the total.

“We as a school and you as families know how important outdoor education is for all of our students and we are overwhelmed with your generosity and my heartfelt thanks goes to you all.

"Once we have the final total we will certainly be sharing and celebrating this wide and far.”

The event sponsors were: 

- Ryder and Dutton

- Bennett Brothers Metal Recycling

- Russell Kenyon Painting and Decorating

- JBA Globe Scaffolding Hire

- Charleswood Fitted Bedrooms and Home studies

- Insul-Eight Environmental Ltd

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