Running for the Reading Bus

I will be running the Millau Viaduct 23.7km / 14.7 miles at the end of May 2018 (https://www.course-eiffage-viaducdemillau.org/the-route/) and wanted to use this as an opportunity to raise money for a school close to my heart.

I have personally worked with Perry Hall Primary School (www.perryhall.co.uk) which is part of Perry Hall Multi-Academy Trust, (a trust which focuses specifically on primary schools), based in Wolverhampton, for over 10 years and although they face many challenges from high up government policies to on the ground support for vulnerable individuals, its always clear they support classic values on nurturing the new generation regardless of background or social status.

To feel cared for in modern education is fast becoming a distant memory but this is a school which allows all students to aim for the stars and guide them to a brighter future.

The 'school council' which is made up of current pupils were recently gathered together to find out what they felt would improve their experience while at school and although a number of ideas were raised, the children quickly identified that an outdoor calm and quiet space which could be used to enjoy reading during lunchtimes and break times would be a welcome opportunity.

If you're not aware, reading and writing are high on the agenda for schools as it is understood that encouraging these key basic skills lead children to become higher achievers in all areas of the curriculum.

This idea from the students moved on to a 'reading bus project' which amazingly the National Express became aware of and have since donated a retired single decor bus to the school.

Although this is a massive step towards their end goal and the school are very grateful, there's still plenty of work which needs to be carried out to bring the children's vision to life. This includes making sure the bus meets all necessary accessibility requirements so all their students can enjoy the space regardless of disabilities or specific needs.

Everyone is excited for the project to be completed so the pupils can enjoy a variety of books and develop their love for reading.

I hope you'll join me and help raise funds for the pupils to complete this project.