525 runners, 120 half‑marathoners, and an astonishing 1,222 loops – together we covered 5,132km for Oasis.
On 1 May this year, we proudly held the Loop Challenge in aid of Oasis Charity, a Surrey‑based organisation that provides vital support to vulnerable families and children facing crisis, abuse, or neglect.
Now in its third year, the event was originally founded by two former pupils, Louise and Flo, and has continued to grow ever since. Last year we raised around £20,000, and our goal this year was to exceed that total and make an even greater impact. All money donated goes towards an amazing cause, directly helping those in need.
This year, we had 525 people take part, including an eye‑watering 120 runners completing the half marathon. Altogether, we ran a total of 1,222 loops, which is equivalent to an incredible 5,132.4km. We have surpassed last year's target of £20k across all donations, entry fees, and Gift Aid – and that’s before adding up the money from the raffle and silent auction, run in partnership with Oasis as they celebrate their 30th anniversary.
Organising the Loop Challenge in support of such a wonderful charity was an amazing experience. Spending the day at Oasis made me feel so proud that our event was helping to raise awareness for such a phenomenal cause. Seeing the positivity from pupils and staff, whether marshalling or running, created an electric atmosphere. I feel a huge sense of pride knowing that all the hard work behind the scenes truly paid off. I’m so fortunate to have been part of the Loop Challenge team – it was so special to see the whole school come together to support Oasis. It’s an experience I’ll always remember, and I’m beyond grateful to have been a part of it.
hebe, first year specialist (Year 12)
This year’s Loop Challenge, I would say, was the best yet. With coloured T‑shirts to show how many loops people completed, the buzz around the School was electric. People were cheering all around the campus, handing out water and much‑needed sweets, and then clapping runners through the finish line. It was a special day for an unbelievable charity.
nicola edwards, director of girls' sport
Alongside the running challenge, a couple of people within the committee organised a raffle and silent auction to further increase the funds raised. Some of the items available are unbelievable, ranging from Ariana Grande tickets to a Sir Geoff Hurst 1966 signed World Cup ball.
This event simply would not have been possible without the eight pupils on the committee who helped with the planning and organising, as well as the dedication of the staff member in charge, Nicola Edwards, who worked tirelessly to bring it all together.
Ben, a First Year Specialist (Year 12), was the fastest runner, finishing the half marathon with an incredible time of 01:26:56.13. You may remember that Ben has already proved his immense running ability when he ran over 60km – from the School all the way to The Charterhouse in London – in support of another charity, F6it.
When another committee member, Hebe, First Year Specialist (Year 12), and I visited the charity, we were able to see first‑hand the difference that the money we raise makes, and the vital support it provides to such young children during incredibly difficult times.
It truly left Hebe and me feeling so positive that our School had such a big impact on these families’ and children’s lives.
tallulah, first year specialist (year 12)
This year’s event was a huge success. The atmosphere throughout the afternoon was truly unmatched, with everyone supporting one another right down to the very last runner. So many people took part, whether completing just one loop or pushing through five, and every effort contributed to something special.
The sense of community and encouragement was incredible, and the experience of being part of creating something so meaningful is truly one that will never be forgotten.– Tallulah, First Year Specialist (Year 12) |
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