Students Row the Distance of the English Channel for Charity

Four determined students from Wey Valley Academy have gone the extra mile—quite literally—by completing a sponsored rowing challenge equivalent to crossing the English Channel.

On Friday 17 May, Year 10 students Immy Hollands, India Smart, Bethany Dawson and Saskia Dart rowed an impressive 21 miles in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust. The challenge, expected to take around five hours, was completed in just four hours, demonstrating remarkable determination and teamwork.

The event forms part of the school’s growing house system, which aims to strengthen community spirit and promote its core values of respect, resilience and ambition. Osprey House, led by its student-focused initiatives and coordinated by Mr Petchey, has been at the forefront of fundraising efforts.

So far, the students have raised more than £300 for the charity, with donations still coming in. Their achievement highlights not only their physical endurance but also their commitment to making a positive difference.

Mr Petchey, House Coordinator at the school said the effort reflects the ambition of the students and hopes it will inspire others across the school community to support charitable causes, both now and in the future.

Mark Damon Chutter, Personal Development Lead, said ‘my thanks to our inspiring students for this charity work  and to Mr Petchey’.