Ratcliffe’s Hike to Bethlehem

Ratcliffe’s Hike to Bethlehem was a roaring success yesterday as we surpassed our fundraising target of £5000 to donate to the Young Minds charity. Despite the cold weather, it was incredible to see the whole school community come together again ranging from nursery to sixth form, with staff taking part also after what has been a very unprecedented year.

As a community, we came together for what is an amazing cause in the Young Minds charity. Young Minds is leading the fight for young people’s mental health in the UK, seeking a future where all young minds are supported and empowered, whatever the challenges. They ensure children and young people get the best possible mental health support and provide services such as help lines for both young people and parents. Students were reminded of the cause during the hike by stopping half way to say a prayer, and reflecting on those who may be struggling this time of year, particularly in 2020.

The hike was 3 miles long covering the perimeter of our grounds, starting at the fitness suite and looping round our AstroTurf pitches, past the front of the school, around the Preparatory School and finishing off at the south terrace. It is safe to say everyone who finished the hike certainly deserved their hot chocolate at the end, whilst some even got a special visit off Santa!

The day was filled with fun and positivity throughout, with Christmas songs filling the air and staff and students in fancy dress. A special congratulations to the Sixth Form for winning the best dressed competition!

Headmaster Mr Reddin had this to say about the event:”The College has raised £5,393 from 266 supporters. This is an excellent total, which exceeds our target of £5k. Thank you very much to all those who have donated. I would like to thank the Senior Prefects of behalf of the community for doing such an excellent job in helping to organise the event over the past 7 weeks. They should be very proud of themselves. I would also like to thank the staff behind the scenes who provided catering, ensured the campus was safe to hike and those who volunteered to be marshals. Lastly, I would like to thank the students for their enthusiasm and good humour, we brought the whole College community together, something that we have previously taken for granted but since March have sorely missed.”

We hope you enjoy taking a look at the photos below and who knows, we may start cleaning our wellies ready for next year!

If you would like to donate to our fundraiser, there is still time! Please click HERE, any donations are greatly appreciated.