Staff Complete 156km Cycle to Support Disadvantaged Pupils

On Saturday 21st June, seven dedicated members of staff from Acorn Education Trust took on an incredible challenge: cycling over 156km in a single day to raise funds for pupils affected by the rising cost of living. The event, dubbed the Tour D’Acorn, saw the team ride through the scenic Wiltshire countryside, stopping at all 23 schools within the Trust.

The cycling team included Anthony Sanchez, Rob Price, Nick Bloxham, Dave Cade, Ryan Dew, and guest riders Charlotte and Liz. Despite varying levels of cycling experience, each rider was united by a shared goal—to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families facing financial hardship.

Dave Cade, Deputy Headteacher at Clarendon Academy, reflected on the experience:

“We are always thinking about our school communities and we know things are pretty tough at the moment. It has been an honour to be part of this team and to have completed this challenge to assist those in need so they don’t feel left out.”

Setting off from Clarendon Academy at 4am to take advantage of cooler temperatures, the team cycled through towns including Rowde, Devizes, Pewsey, Durrington, Great Wishford, Warminster, and Westbury. Along the way, staff from across the Trust provided refreshments and cheered the cyclists on, creating a supportive and celebratory atmosphere.

The team arrived back at Clarendon Academy in Trowbridge at 12:20pm.

Ryan Dew reflected “It was an emotional finish, crossing that line together, knowing what we’d achieved and who it was for, made every kilometre worth it.”

So far, the Tour D’Acorn has raised nearly £600, which will go directly towards providing school uniforms, supplies, and support for extracurricular activities for pupils and families in need.