We never cease to be amazed by the commitment, enthusiasm and generosity of our boys and their families in supporting charities, and last year was no exception. The number of activities the boys undertook and the amount raised for Magpas was incredible.
This week, as we announced our charity for this year, it was fitting to welcome Emma from Magpas back to the school. She reflected on last year’s achievements and spoke to the boys about how their fundraising efforts will help save lives.
Emma began by expressing Magpas’s heartfelt gratitude to everyone, especially the boys, telling them, “We are absolutely blown away by the amount you raised. You are amazing, and you should be very proud.”
The boys’ final figure of almost £12,000, the highest ever raised by a school for the charity, is a significant contribution that will make a real difference to Magpas and all the people they help.
Emma explained that Magpas might use the boys’ funds for two portable ultrasound machines. These specialist machines, the size of a mobile phone, help them to detect injuries invisible to the naked eye, such as internal bleeding, a torn liver or a damaged kidney. Early detection is key and can help to save a life.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported the boys in their activities and fundraising.
It was then time to reveal this year’s charity: Diabetes UK.
A quick poll in the assembly revealed that virtually every boy had a friend or family member affected by diabetes. By the end of the assembly, it was clear that every boy knew someone with diabetes when Mr Guest stepped up to speak. Mr Guest revealed to the boys that he has had diabetes for 25 years. He explained the impact of the illness on daily life – “there is never a day off of diabetes” – and how research and technology developed by Diabetes UK are making a hugely positive difference in managing the condition today.
Mr Dennis challenged the boys to match last year’s fundraising total and explained some of the many activities boys can get involved in, from non-uniform day to House events to UK Diabetes Day. Mr Dennis also revealed that, following the success of last year’s fundraising trip to Snowdon, there will be another, albeit different, exciting fundraising trip that boys can join.
