Sedbergh Embraces the Season of Giving with Enthusiasm and Generosity
The Christmas season is a time to reflect, give back, and support those in need—a spirit that Sedbergh School embodies wholeheartedly. Last weekend, three of our nine boarding houses undertook inspiring endurance fundraising initiatives, demonstrating the values of kindness and resilience.
Powell House 24-Hour Rowathon
Powell House rose to the challenge with an incredible 24-hour rowathon to raise funds for our chosen Christmas Charity, Teenage Cancer Trust. Setting themselves the ambitious target of rowing 280 miles—the distance from Sedbergh to the Royal Marsden Cancer Hospital in Surrey—the boys worked in year groups through the night, supporting and motivating one another.
Their efforts were nothing short of extraordinary, with Housemaster Mr. Follett reflecting:
“The boys were fantastic, working in year groups throughout the night they encouraged and motivated each other. The energy and enthusiasm were amazing. The house was rocking at 4am!”
By the end of the rowathon, Powell House exceeded their goal, rowing an astonishing 288 miles and raising £1,800 for a worthy cause.
School House Tribe 24-Hour Bikeathon
In a similar display of endurance and teamwork, School House hosted a Tribe 24-Hour Bikeathon. With five Watt Bikes, five tribes, and every Kingfisher completing two one-hour stints, pupils cycled continuously from 6 pm Saturday to 6 pm Sunday. Housemaster Mr. Coke described it as:
“Probably one of the highlights in my six years in School House—camaraderie, resilience, endeavour, support… it was all there in abundance.”
Evans House 24-Hour Triathlon
Evans House joined the weekend’s efforts with a unique 24-hour triathlon, raising funds for two fantastic causes. This initiative not only supported their house charity, Restart Africa, but also contributed to the broader spirit of giving at Sedbergh. Pupils demonstrated immense determination and teamwork in completing this physically demanding challenge for such worthwhile causes.
Broader Contributions
These initiatives complement wider school efforts, including contributions to the Ukraine Christmas Boxes Appeal and donations to the Morecambe Food Bank, reflecting the collective generosity of the Sedbergh community.
Robertson House Charity Auction
Meanwhile, Robertson House hosted a spectacular charity auction at their recent parent dinner, raising an impressive £1,421 for the Teenage Cancer Trust.
Lupton House Rucksack Appeal
Lupton House focused their efforts on helping the homeless, collecting donations to fill rucksacks with essential items for those in need this winter.
Living Sedbergh’s Values
These activities highlight not only the enthusiasm and creativity of our pupils but also their commitment to making a difference. The festive season is truly brought to life at Sedbergh through acts of kindness and compassion.
We are incredibly proud of the energy, teamwork, and determination our pupils have shown in embracing the spirit of giving. Congratulations to all involved—you are an inspiration to us all!
