Highfield Deputy Head Completes London Marathon for Transformative Highreach Programme

Vivienne Liddell, Deputy Head at Highfield and Brookham School and a long-time supporter of the school's Highreach programme, has completed her first-ever London Marathon, crossing the finish line and joining the coveted 1% of people who can say they have run 26.2 miles through the capital.

Vivienne stepped well outside her comfort zone to take on the iconic route past some of London's most famous landmarks, all in aid of a programme that makes a profound difference to children and families.

Reflecting on her achievement, Vivienne said, "Never in a million years did I believe that I would be in the marathon 1% club but with my toenails still intact and blister free, I did it! A huge thank you to everyone who donated so generously, we have raised more money than I thought possible and that certainly kept me going out on mile 20!"

Setting out hoping to raise £4,000, Vivienne has already smashed that target, raising an incredible £6,676 with donations still coming in.

Highreach offers something truly special: a week of independence, joy and adventure for children with additional needs, alongside much-needed respite for their parents and carers.

The programme grew from Vivienne's belief that Highfield and Brookham's exceptional grounds and facilities could be used to create something extraordinary during the summer holidays, an idea sparked by a visit to Hollywater School, which helped bring the vision to life.

Reflecting on Highreach's earliest days, Vivienne recalls the emotional impact of the very first week, "Seeing parents collect their children, many of whom had been terrified to leave them, was incredibly moving. They trusted us to not only care for their children but give them an unforgettable experience. There were lots of tears."

Now in its eighth year, Highreach costs approximately £25,000 per week to run, a figure that has risen significantly in recent years due to the cost of living. Without ongoing fundraising and donations, the programme simply could not continue.

"We rely entirely on the generosity of our Highfield and Brookham community and supporters," says Vivienne. "The children here love fundraising and understand exactly what their efforts support, which makes it even more meaningful."

When Highreach secured a coveted place in the London Marathon, Vivienne didn't hesitate to put herself forward.

"I felt strongly that the most money would be raised by someone within the school community who isn't a runner and would find it a real challenge," she explains. "So I volunteered and the Highreach children chose me."

Donations are still being accepted, and every pound raised will go directly towards making Highreach possible and continuing its life-changing impact. Whether you are a former pupil, parent or simply wish to support an exceptional cause, any donation, big or small, will make a real difference.

To support Vivienne's fundraising, visit: justgiving.com/page/vivienne-liddell