Over the past year, the Year 7 girls at Roedean School have been fundraising for Rockinghorse, culminating with a 90ft abseil from Peacehaven Cliffs.
Every academic year at the famous Brighton girls’ school choose a charity to support and across the year they undertake a range of different activities to help their fundraising.
Over the past year, they held a 55-minute sponsored silence, collected Easter eggs for children spending time in hospital and held an Easter Cake design competition where the winner saw their creation made into reality by the school’s chef and then donated to the NHS staff at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital.
The end of the year finale involved the Year 7 girls abseiling 90 feet down Peacehaven Cliffs on a windy Friday afternoon in June.
Deputy Head at Roedean Dr Ross Barrand, who was supporting the pupils at the abseil, said, “It was great to see so many of the girls readily taking on this challenge. It was really windy at the top, and the worst bit is always the initial lean back over the cliff-edge, but after that it was fine.
“For some, it was a real challenge to conquer their fears but they did so and it was brilliant to see how proud they were that they had done it.”
One of the pupils taking part was Isabelle who was initially doubtful about whether she could take on the challenge. She said, “When we arrived, the sight of the massive cliff filled me with panic, and I was certain that I didn’t want to do it.
“Then I remembered the wonderful cause we were doing this challenge for, and I found the courage to put on the gear. Standing at the edge of the cliff, I took a deep breath and made the decision to go for it. It turned out to be the best decision I had ever made, as I ended up having an exhilarating and enjoyable experience. Even more than that, I overcame my fears, and I’m really proud of myself.”
Emma Cunliffe, Supporter Engagement Manager at Rockinghorse, is always overwhelmed by the support the school show to Rockinghorse. She said, “We are so grateful to all the Year 7s at Roedean for choosing to support Rockinghorse throughout the year, raising an incredible £6,640.
“They always go above and beyond and the money and awareness they raise for the charity makes such a huge difference to children across Sussex and their families!”
If your school wants to get involved in supporting Rockinghorse, it’s simple, just get in touch with Emma at emma@rockinghorse.org.uk and find out how we can help.
