On Thursday 14 October 2021, pupils from across the whole School, along with sixth formers from our partner school London Academy of Excellence, Tottenham (LAET), took part in our bi-annual sponsored walk to raise funds for five local, national and international charities, as chosen by our pupils.
Each year group undertook varying distances, with our oldest pupils walking over 19km from Tottenham to Highgate. There was such a lovely atmosphere, pupils enjoying the chance to develop friendships and have fun, appreciate our local environment and raise money for good causes.
Reception pupils undertook laps of our Senior Field, whilst the older Pre-Prep children headed to Hampstead Heath, along with Junior and Senior School pupils, to undertake laps of the perimeter and enjoy the wonderful views of London and the beautiful natural habitat on our doorstep.
We were delighted to team up with our sibling school LAET, offering sixth form pupils an opportunity to meet fellow students and enjoy the event together. Pupils gathered at the school in Tottenham with Heads Adam Pettitt and Jan Balon, to begin their 19.2k walk towards Highgate School, and around Hampstead Heath.
Jan Balon, Head of London Academy of Excellence, Tottenham, explains: “Today encapsulates perfectly the partnership between Highgate and LAE Tottenham. As we traverse the borough which both schools call home, we build the relationships between each other in a joint endeavour supporting those in need, locally, nationally and internationally. There really is power in partnership“.
Our Senior School cross-country team used the opportunity to improve their fitness, by running the course, some of whom completed a half marathon in the process: an outstanding effort from all, considering the difficult and very hilly terrain. Others wore their House colours or lively outfits!
In addition to sponsorship for the walk, pupils brought food, toiletries and household donations for our local charity North London Food Bank Aid, which were collected during the walk.
Director of Community Partnerships Ms Sarah Butterworth reflected: “My favourite part of the walk was watching the Year 8s rolling down the hill just before we arrived at Kenwood House—the sheer joy and energy was palpable. What a fantastic day—the sun shone on our whole community and we all came together for the first time in so very long! Thank you to all pupils, staff and families for raising funds for such deserving causes—you pushed yourselves, walked (and in some cases ran) hard and it was all worth it for the difference your efforts can make!”
Adam Pettitt, Highgate Head, summed up: “Sore legs, new friends, money raised – so impressed with the cheerful enthusiasm of young people from both our schools stepping out to make a difference.”
We have raised over £41,000 so far, and will be continuing our efforts until the 5 November. The five charities that have been chosen by our pupils are World Land Trust (Pre-Prep), Battersea Dogs Home (Junior School), Alexandra Wylie Foundation (Lower School – Ys7&8), Action Aid (Middle School – Ys 9-11) and Extra Cover (Sixth formers from Highgate and LAET). For more information on the chosen charities, and to donate, please visit: https://www.highgateschool.org.uk/sponsored-walk-on-14-october-2021/
Thank you kindly for your contribution – every donation counts!
