The UK's poorest schoolchildren need your help

Imagine you're going out for a run with a friend. Their half of the running route is clear, yet yours is lined with hurdles. Unfair, right? But that's what our education system is like for the UK's poorest children.

All kids work hard at school. But those from disadvantaged families have always had to overcome more hurdles to keep up with their wealthier classmates.

And COVID-19 has only made this worse. It's estimated that ten years of progress towards an education system that works for every child has been lost. We're determined to reverse this. But we need your help.

We know that when we get the foundations right for poorer pupils - great teachers, brilliant leaders and thriving schools - every young person can have the opportunities they deserve.

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In 2020, Run the River raised more than £145,000 for Teach First. This could have transformed 4 schools or given more than 18,000 children access to quality careers education.

This year we are aiming for the event to raise £150,000, including £25,000 from this campaign.

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When is Run the River taking place?

Run the River, usually sees 3,000 people run along the River Thames. But this year we're keeping the event virtual and flexible, which means you can get involved from anywhere in the world. It doesn't matter where you run; it just matters that you run.

Individually, you'll complete your chosen 5km or 10km route between 7 and 12 September.

But, together, these distances will add up to countless collective marathons.

Run, roll or stroll your chosen route - wherever you are - and raise vital funds to help every young person get the opportunities they deserve.

How can your donation make a difference?

£50 - could fund a careers session for six young people in schools serving the most disadvantaged communities in the UK.

£100 - could provide an aspiring school leader with an hours coaching session to sharpen their skills and make the biggest impact in the classroom and beyond.

£250 - could contribute towards funding a full year of training for a teacher supporting the most disadvantaged pupils.