PUPILS have been putting their fitness to the test as they have been collectively running hundreds of miles for charity.

The Sunflower class at St Luke’s Primary School, in Tiptree, has taken on the challenge to raise money for homeless charity Crisis.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Teamwork - Elliot, Myles and Mary all taking on the challenge

The children were inspired by classes they had before Christmas and by footballer Marcus Rashford’s work in highlighting children living in poverty.

Class teacher Clare Heard said: “Before Christmas, we did a lot of talking about the homeless and the role of Crisis, along with the work Marcus Rashford did.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Helping Hand - June and Willow helping each other along

“We watched a clip of a little boy named Henry Cleary who ran a marathon in a week to raise money during lockdown.

“The children were inspired by his efforts and asked if we could do something.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Focused - Olivia, Lily, India and Sophie putting their miles in

“Originally we were going to try and run 100 miles between us all in a week, but as it got closer, we thought it would be nice if we can do a mile each every day, and now we are looking likely to do closer to 150 miles.”

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The pupils, all aged four or five years old, alongside Clare and teaching assistant Danny Clarke, completed the challenge last week.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Trio - Lily, India and Sophie running together

Some even carried on the challenge at home, as they were off due to Covid, running around their gardens.

Mrs Heard added: “It is the first thing we have done as a class for a charity, we often do sponsored events for school resources.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Exercise - Holly remaining cheerful during her efforts

“Everyone found it a challenge, but they all helped each other along, some going back for others after they finished.

“I am proud of them all, they have taken homelessness to their heart and tried to make people’s lives better. It is wonderful to see.”

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Running - Ashmi keeping focused

The class has raised more than £200 with half going to Crisis and the rest towards class resources.

Assistant headteacher Clare Walker said: “We are exceptionally proud of Mrs Heard, the staff and all of the children in Sunflower class.”

MORE PICTURES BELOW

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Hard Work - Isla staying determined to finish her run

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Keep Going - Mrs Heard and Micheal teaming up to put in the miles

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Job Well Done - Max celebrates his amazing efforts

 

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