Da Vinci Academy staff run 'a-muck' for charity

The dedicated staff at Da Vinci Academy in Derby have been dusting themselves off after a muddy fundraising challenge this weekend.

Ten members of the Da Vinci Academy team joined together to complete the Pretty Muddy 5k challenge in Markeaton Park on Saturday morning. The team is comprised of friends and colleagues from across different departments of the school, with varying ages and fitness levels, all supporting one another.

The Pretty Muddy challenge is a 5-kilometre-long course, which – as the name suggests – includes muddy obstacles for participants to climb, crawl and slide their way over, for “everyone, no matter their fitness level”. The race is organised by Cancer Research UK, as part of fundraising activities.

The Da Vinci Academy team originally aimed to raise £50 each, leading to a total of £500; so far, they have already exceeded their goal and have raised more than £1,200.

The team taking part hope to also lead by example for their students, showing the Da Vinci Academy mission of “One Team, Changing Worlds” through determination and a commitment to the community, as well as demonstrating that sports can be enjoyed by all.

“As a team, we wanted to take part in Pretty Muddy to help showcase the importance of perseverance while also raising funds for an important cause.

“It was far easier and way more fun to do this race alongside such an amazing group of women. We work as a fantastic team together every day at Da Vinci Academy, so it has been amazing to showcase the strength of our team.”

Sophie Mckenzie, Assistant Headteacher at Da Vinci Academy

“We are so proud of the team who represented Da Vinci Academy at Pretty Muddy. We have all been cheering them on in the lead up to the race itself, and it has generated a great deal of excitement amongst the students.

“Cancer affects so many people, in the local community and across the UK, so being able to contribute to the fight against it is hugely important.

“It’s vital for us to show our students the value not only of charitable giving, but also pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and gaining new experiences.”

Jayne Scattergood, Headteacher