Running to Eradicate Bed Poverty in Our Schools
Big Move 3 of our strategy - Civic Leadership - recognises that schools and students thrive best when communities do.
Part of our role as a family of schools is to deliver civic impact. That is why last year we established the Windsor Academy Trust Community Foundation. Over time, the Foundation will enable us to support those in our communities who need it the most through our trust-wide collective fundraising efforts.
This year’s WAT a Run event will help build on our fundraising efforts to date and our aim is to
Community Foundation
reach our next milestone of £20,000. It is our ambition to raise the necessary funds to ensure that every child in our schools has a bed to sleep in so we can eradicate bed poverty across our school communities.
The reality of bed poverty – children and families without access to adequate and safe sleeping arrangements – is a critical issue that often goes unnoticed. Yet, its impact on the health, education and overall well-being of young people is profound. By focusing our efforts on this cause, we aim to bring about a tangible, positive change in the lives of those affected.
About WAT a Run 2024
Embark on a Journey of Strength, Unity, and Determination
Join us in our unique and inspiring challenge, “WAT a Run 2024,” a two-day sponsored run connecting our schools and communities. This event is not just a test of endurance, but a celebration of the spirit of the WAT Family, as we come together to make a significant difference in the communities where we work and live.
Date: Challenge:
Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th May 2024
As many of us as possible, covering as many kilometres as possible to tray and raise over £20,000 for the WAT Community Foundation.
Day 1 Highlights: Day 2 Highlights:
• Start at Greenway Primary Academy.
• The route includes key checkpoints at Milton Primary Academy, Sir Thomas Boughey, Newcastle Academy, and Clayton Hall Academy.
• Each leg varies in distance, with the shortest being 1.97 km and the longest 17.29 km.
• Estimated times for each leg range from 14 minutes to approximately 2 hours.
• Day 1 concludes at Clayton Hall Academy
• Runners will stay together throughout running at around 7 mins per kilometre pace
• Kick-off at Cheslyn Hay Academy at 8am.
• The journey continues through Great Wyrley Academy, Rivers and Goldsmith Primaries Academies, Windsor Olympus Academies before heading to our 4 Halesowen schools.
• Participants can experience varied terrain and distances, ensuring an exciting and dynamic run.
• Conclude the challenge with a 5km ‘fun run’ and family celebration at Kingswinford Academy.
Runners will stay together throughout running at around 7 mins per kilometre pace.
The Route: Day 1
The Route: Day 2
Targets
How do I get involved?
To start fundraising you simply need to share the link to our Enthuse fundraising platform. The donations you recieve will be added directly to the WAT a Run total. 1
Scan the QR code below or head to the WAT a Run web page here: www.windsoracademytrust.org. uk/wat-a-run
2 3
Register for the event by completing the form on the page
Share the fundraising link far and wide to start raising money for the WAT Community Foundation!
£20,000
QR code to register for WAT a Run
QR code to donate to WAT a Run
Training and Top Tips
Training for WAT a Run is an important part of the preparation process. It not only helps you build endurance and stamina but also improves your overall health and wellbeing.
A good place to start is by setting a realistic training plan that fits your current fitness level and gradually increases in intensity as the event approaches.
Here are some top tips to help you prepare for your charity run:
Set a realistic training plan and stick to it
Incorporate a mix of cardio and strength training exercises in your training schedule
Gradually increase the intensity of your workouts as the event approaches
Stay hydrated and fuel your body with nutritious foods
Get plenty of rest and sleep to recover from your training sessions
Wear comfortable and appropriate running shoes and clothing
Listen to your body and adjust your training schedule accordingly
And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the experience!
Remember that any training you do is better than none, and that every step taken is a step closer to achieving your goal and supporting a good cause
Couch to 5KM
If your target is to complete 5km, either at the track or joining any part of the route, why not try the free NHS Couch to 5K plan to get you started.
If you start the plan on the 18th March 2024, your 5km journey can end at our local school on the 27th or 28th during the fun run!
You can register for the ‘Couch to 5K’ for free here.
Fundraising Top Tips
Share the Enthuse fundraising link with friends and family on your social media platforms
Use Gift Aid: Gift Aid is a UK government scheme that allows Enthuse to claim an extra 25p for every £1 you raise, at no extra cost to you or your donors
Set a challenging but achievable goal: Set a fundraising goal that will inspire people to donate, but make sure it’s achievable. You can always increase it later!
Share your progress regularly: Keep your donors informed of your progress and thank them for their support. Share any training updates or milestones you reach
Make it easy for people to donate: Make sure the Enthuse fundraising page is easy to find, and share regularly