fundraiser

Stand-up at The Leadmill: Rachael raises vital funds with comedy challenge!

Our Northern Programme Manager, Rachael, has courageously performed a stand-up comedy fundraiser in Sheffield. 

Confidently delivering her set in July at the famous Leadmill venue, Rachael’s eight-week UltraComedy training helped display her comedic talents.  

Read on as we discover the inspiring story of Rachael’s challenge, as she shares her setbacks and triumphs along the way.

The joy of making others laugh

Choosing comedy over a sporting fundraising challenge, Rachael says she loves making others laugh.

“One of the things I miss most about teaching is standing up in front of 28 pupils and making them laugh (I did teach them on occasion too!),” she says. “So, I thought it would be good to try some actual stand-up!”

Overcoming writer’s block

Crafting comedic material proved a formidable challenge for Rachael, as she grappled with a creativity block.

“I discovered that writing actual jokes is really difficult. Being funny in the pub with your friends is very different to standing up on stage and performing your own material.” – Rachael

Rachael’s perseverance shone through as she embraced the training, relishing the opportunity to meet new people and share creative ideas.

Battling the nerves

As it would be for most, the prospect of performing stand-up comedy was nerve-wracking for Rachael.

“I was okay in terms of feeling nervous right up to the day itself and then I found my emotions hard to manage! There were 27 acts in total and I was on 25th! Waiting such a long time whilst everyone else performed was really tough.” – Rachael

However, Rachael conquered her nerves and delivered a brilliant performance in the spotlight.

“I was glad that there were such bright spotlights shining on me so I was dazzled and couldn’t actually see anyone in the audience!” – Rachael

Fundraising success

Rachael had great fundraising success, raising an incredible £503.75 including Gift Aid.

This amount could provide enhanced DBS checks for 44 volunteer tutors, or high quality maths or English workbooks to 96 pupils!

“Watching the funds raised for Action Tutoring mount up was a great buzz.” – Rachael

Get out of your comfort zone

Rachael encourages anyone considering a similar challenge to take the plunge!

Want to get involved and help us support disadvantaged pupils to unlock their academic potential? Email molly.cottrill@actiontutoring.org.uk to discuss your fundraising idea!

My Smoke Ring challenge for Action Tutoring

175 miles, one ripped tyre and a whole lot of learning

Blog written by Action Tutoring’s Nich Bull:

On Friday 5th July this year I took on the challenge of a lifetime – the Smoke Ring 2024; a gruelling 200 mile off-road bike ride around London raising money for Action Tutoring.

The ride is definitely a brutal test. Overall it was a super wet night, constant pedalling for nearly 20 hours, and the significant physical and mental strain that comes with pushing yourself to the limit.

While I didn’t quite make it the full 200 miles, I still managed 175 miles as a ripped tyre forced me to stop around 10 am on Saturday. Disappointment? Sure. But this ride wasn’t just about the finish line. It was a journey of self-discovery, and it taught me some invaluable lessons that I want to share with you.

Resilience and the power of learning from failure

The Smoke Ring was altogether the most challenging thing I have ever done. It certainly pushed me to my absolute physical and mental limits. But you know what? It also shows me the power of resilience and the importance of learning from failure.

Now, I have a year to analyse what went wrong and return stronger next time. Going forward, I will look to prepare different tools and strategies. That’s the beauty (and sometimes frustration) of pushing your boundaries – you learn what works and what doesn’t.

The importance of evidence-based action in overcoming challenges

This experience got me particularly thinking about the importance of resilience and learning from failure in a broader sense – not just for individuals, but also for organisations. Research shows that the best organisations are the ones that embrace failure as a learning opportunity. They take stock of what went wrong, analyse the data, and use that information to improve.

A core Action Tutoring value is basing our work on evidence. We especially focus on analysing our results, even when they’re not what we specifically hoped for. This allows us to constantly improve and make a bigger impact on the lives of the children we serve.

Maybe we all need to get better at embracing evidence-based failure. By learning from our mistakes, we can grow stronger and achieve even greater things.

This Smoke Ring challenge may not have ended with me crossing the finish line, but the journey of learning and growing is far from over. Together, let’s keep pushing forward, embracing challenges, and positively impacting the world.

Support Action Tutoring and keep the journey going

If you feel inspired by Action Tutoring’s mission and Nich’s Smoke Ring challenge, there are a few ways you can get involved:

• Take up a challenge yourself: See a list of our events here or get in contact with our Fundraising Coordinator, Molly, molly.cottrill@actiontutoring.org.uk if you have your own event in mind.
• Corporate partnerships: Are you looking to get your company involved in a cause that matters? See more information here or get in contact with our Corporate Partnerships Manager, Mollie, directly on mollie.vessey@actiontutoring.org.uk.
• Volunteer as a tutor: Share your knowledge and make a real difference in a child’s life. Sign up to volunteer below!

10 formidable fundraisers challenge themselves at the London 10k!

Ten fearless runners have raised over £3,000 for Action Tutoring by taking on the Saucony London 10k.

Cheered on by family and friends, fundraisers completed the flat and urban route, supporting pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds across England.

Read on to find out about how our runners triumphantly crossed the finish line on this fantastic day of fundraising.

Fantastic day at the London 10k

On Sunday 14th July, London’s streets were not filled with the usual traffic. Instead, 13,000 keen runners completed the London 10k, surrounded by sun and blue skies.

Starting in Piccadilly, passing many iconic landmarks, and finishing near Parliament Square, the route was made  for a personal best!

“Running through the beautiful streets of London was an exhilarating experience, and it was made even more special knowing that every step taken was towards supporting Action Tutoring.” – Ashutosh, fundraiser

Booming atmosphere and iconic London 10k route

The London 10k is renowned for its carnival-like atmosphere, and this year’s event was no exception, with roaring music and applauding supporters.

“The atmosphere throughout the run was amazing, people cheering and music blaring was so much fun and helped push me on.” – Eluario, fundraiser

Running past incredible sights like Big Ben, the London Eye, and the River Thames made for an unforgettable experience. Westminster Bridge even brought a welcome surprise!

“Reaching Westminster Bridge and having people shoot water guns to help cool us all down for the last couple of kilometres was a much-needed blessing and so much fun for everyone involved.” – Gabe, staff fundraiser

Best-friend duo

The camaraderie shared between friends can be a powerful motivator for taking on a personal challenge. Running the race as a duo, Gabe and Eluario created a lasting memory as they ran side-by-side.

“Running with one of my best mates made the experience so much better as we were able to push each other.” – Gabe, staff fundraiser

They both attributed their success to the mutual encouragement they provided throughout the race, helping them push through to the finish line.

Keeping the cause in mind

Driven by their commitment to our cause, our runners maintained high motivation and determination throughout their training and on race day.

“Knowing that our efforts will support educational needs for those who require extra help made it all worthwhile.” – Bernard

Not only did they raise vital funds, but our team pushed themselves physically and mentally to achieve their goals.

“Running for such a great cause was a huge motivator, making me push myself to complete the race and finish it in as fast a time as possible.” – Eluario, fundraiser

“This event was not just about pushing my physical limits but also about contributing to a cause close to my heart.” – Ashutosh, fundraiser

Victorious fundraising

All their hard work paid off! The team raised an incredible £3,049.93, rising to £3,321.80 with Gift Aid.

This could provide an incredible 610 high quality pupil workbooks, or online training for 1,071 volunteer tutors.

A huge thank you to QBE, of which Action Tutoring is the UK community partner of their foundation. We are grateful to them for matching the donations of their four runners in this race.

“A huge well done to our team of 10 who took on this personal achievement whilst fundraising for our important work. Our vision is a world in which no child’s life chances are limited by their socio-economic background. We couldn’t achieve this without you. Thank you!” – Hannah O’Neill, Head of Philanthropy

Fundraise for us

Do you want to get involved in a fundraising challenge for us? We might just have the opportunity for you!

Contact our Fundraising Coordinator, Molly, at molly.cottrill@actiontutoring.org.uk for a full list of our events. You can also check out our Fundraising Pack for all the ways you can support us.

Fundraisers tackle Hackney Half to end education inequality

The atmosphere for the Hackney Half marathon was electrifying. A field of over 20,000 runners were ready to push their minds and bodies to the finish line. Among them, our dedicated Action Tutoring team – a powerful force of 10 volunteers, staff members, QBE corporate partner employees, and supporters.

Buzzing atmosphere

The energy of thousands of cheering fans at the Hackney Half marathon was contagious. Joining the high spirits to support our fundraisers was our Corporate Partnerships Coordinator, Anisa. 

“There was an incredible buzz not just at the event, but across the whole neighbourhood! It was so inspiring to see the sea of coloured t-shirts for the many charities people were supporting.”
Anisa

Our very own London Senior Programme Coordinator, Amber, echoes the positive vibes of race day.

“This was my first half marathon, and it was an amazing experience from start to finish! The atmosphere on the day was fantastic, with live music, cheering crowds, and plenty of water and sweets to keep me going.”
Amber

Challenging conditions

The relentless sun beat down on the runners throughout the race. However, our QBE fundraiser, Michael, bravely didn’t let the heat stop him from getting his personal best (PB)!

“The weather on race day was a scorcher, which was great for the spectators, but made the running conditions a bit more challenging! I am very happy to have completed the race without stopping in 2:12. Not bad for a first attempt!”
Michael

Highly recommended!

For those seeking personal growth and a rewarding feeling, Michael suggests taking on a similar challenge.

“The event was great fun and very well organised with amazing support throughout the race and music/food/drink all going on at the finish line. I would highly recommend signing up to any future events.

I would also like to thank Action Tutoring for making this happen. I hope the money raised will go some way in helping support your pupils and volunteers!”
Michael

Amber, who has first-hand experience with the transformative power of tutoring, also reflects on this impactful experience.

“It was wonderful to run for a purpose and fundraise for a cause I truly care about. As someone who has tutored in various schools, I’ve seen the positive impact these sessions have on pupils.”
Amber

Fundraising champions

The Hackney Half team raised an incredible £3,197, rising to £3,757 with Gift Aid. This incredible amount could provide 648 high quality workbooks for our volunteer tutors, or could provide a full year of tutoring for 7 pupils.

A special thank you to QBE, of which Action Tutoring is the UK community partner of their Foundation, for matching their employee, Michael’s, donations!

“A huge congratulations to our team who ran in the Hackney Half marathon for our vital cause. We admire your outstanding training and fundraising efforts. We couldn’t achieve a world in which no child’s life chances are limited by their socio-economic background without you. Thank you!”
Hannah O’Neill, Head of Philanthropy

Get involved

Are you inspired to take on a sponsored challenge for Action Tutoring? 

You can support young people who need it most by fundraising for a challenge such as a hike, cycle, walk, or run. Find out more and become a fundraiser below.

Employee takes on running challenges to raise vital funds

In a dedicated effort to raise funds for our critical cause, Beth, our Curriculum and Quality Manager, bravely took on this year’s Manchester Marathon and Manchester Half Marathon.

Beth pushed her mind and body to the limit in these gruelling challenges, firstly taking on the full marathon in April, and then the half in May.

Read on as we delve into Beth’s experience, exploring the triumphs and tribulations she faced, and ultimately her proud moment of accomplishment.

Battling nerves

With every tick of the clock bringing the marathon closer, anticipation tightened in Beth. The sheer scale of the challenge was building up.

“I was very nervous in the days/weeks leading up to the marathon. I knew how hard it was going to be and had built up to it for so long.”

Beth

However, as the race began, Beth felt more focussed and energised on the task ahead, ready to take on the long 26.2 miles!

“As they blasted the Courteeners and set off flames to start the race, those nerves eased a bit!”

Thinking of the cause

Unfortunately weeks before her marathon, Beth suffered an injury that threw her training plan off course.

“The toughest part was spraining my ankle a couple of weeks before the marathon and knowing I could not prepare in the way I had planned.”

Exhaustion also threatened Beth in the race’s final stretch, but her focus remained unwavering. The cause that ignited her passion to take on this challenge, supporting disadvantaged pupils across England, continued to propel her forward.

“The last five miles were horrendous, and just focusing on one foot in front of the other and where the money was going was what kept me in it!”

Buzzing atmosphere

Beth then went on to complete the Manchester Half Marathon in May, which was a welcome relief after doing double this distance in April!

The atmosphere was electric, the rain held off, and Beth was ready to take on her second challenge.

“The atmosphere at the half marathon was buzzing. Rain had been predicted in Manchester, but it was perfect conditions for a race.”

Smiling across the finish line

The final kilometre of the half-marathon brought a wide smile to Beth’s face whilst she reflected on all she had achieved.

“A highlight was reaching the final kilometre of the half marathon with a huge smile on my face, knowing I had reached the fundraising target and I was so close to the end.”

Beth smashed her fundraising target, raising an incredible £830 plus £166.25 in Gift Aid. This amount will be split equally between Action Tutoring and another charity close to her heart. 

“Well done Beth! Thank you for your amazing dedication in supporting our wonderful pupils. You have gone above and beyond your role at Action Tutoring to take on this challenge, and we are extremely grateful for your support.”

Hannah O’Neill, Head of Philanthropy

Go for it!

Beth’s advice for future budding fundraisers is to go for it!

“Absolutely go for it! Every time an email pops up saying ‘you have received a donation!’ you’re reminded why all the early wake-ups, rain-soaked running kit and aching muscles are worth it! 

Not only that, but the sense of achievement at the end is unmatched. I have learned so much about myself whilst also being totally blown away by the generosity and kindness of others. I would wholeheartedly recommend it.”

Beth

Feeling inspired by Beth’s achievement? Why not sign up to one of our fundraising challenges? Express your interest on the form below!

Or, do you have your own idea, sports based or not? Reach out to our Fundraising Coordinator, Molly, via molly.cottrill@actiontutoring.org.uk. We look forward to hearing from you!

Fundraisers take on the Bristol 10k for disadvantaged pupils

Five formidable fundraisers completed the Bristol 10k to raise crucial funds for pupils facing disadvantage across England.

Over 15,000 participants took on the route, passing stunning views and famous graffiti murals, whilst pushing their physical limits.

Read on to hear why our fundraisers took on this challenge to support the cause.

Dedicated support team

Our runners enjoyed some fantastic support on the day.

Staff from various departments of our organisation turned up to support, including Senior Bristol Programme Coordinator, Chloe, Senior Engagement Coordinator, Abby and Bristol and Sussex Programme Manager, Rachel.

Chloe reflects on the buzzing atmosphere of the day.

It was brilliant cheering on the runners at the Bristol 10k! There’s always such a great energy on the day, from both runners and supporters. – Chloe

Abby made a race day poster for Freya. It wasn’t just for cheering her on. The poster, which Freya loves, now holds a pride of place on her bedroom wall!

Dad and daughter duo

Freya, our Senior Bristol Programme Coordinator, teamed up with her dad, David, to conquer the race. It was a fantastic experience they’ll both cherish.

The race was much better than I expected! I was really happy that I achieved my goal of not stopping to walk. It was so good to run with my dad and to see the other fundraisers after the race. – Freya

Being mindful of the heat, Freya’s advice to future runners is to make sure you keep hydrated!

It was really hot and we didn’t know when we ran past the water station that there wasn’t going to be another one, so my advice to future fundraisers would be to grab two water bottles because you never know if there’s another water station on the route! – Freya

Fundraising success!

The team of five raised an incredible £955.17, rising to £1175.93 with Gift Aid!

This amount could provide a year of face-to-face tutoring for 2 pupils. It could also provide 203 high quality workbooks for face-to-face tutors.

Congratulations to our five fantastic fundraisers who worked tirelessly to raise funds for our pupils by running the Bristol 10k. Our vision is a world in which no child’s life chances are limited by their socio-economic background. We couldn’t achieve this vision without you, thank you! – Hannah O’Neill, Head of Philanthropy

Get involved

Do you want to get involved in a fundraising challenge for us? We might just have the opportunity for you!

We’re currently looking for fundraisers to join our team for the London-Brighton Cycle Ride (55 miles) in September. Contact our Fundraising Coordinator, Molly, at molly.cottrill@actiontutoring.org.uk, or sign up via the link below!

Fearless fundraisers take on the Birmingham 10k to raise vital funds!

Four incredible Action Tutoring fundraisers have taken on the Birmingham 10k to support disadvantaged young people. Pushing their physical limits, the fundraisers showed great dedication to our important cause of closing the education attainment gap.

Read on to hear about Orla, Molly, John, and Justina’s incredible commitment to our cause.

Booming atmosphere

Our Fundraising Coordinator for Campaigns, Events, and Individual Giving, Molly, attended the race to cheer on our incredible team. She highlights how the atmosphere on race day was electric.

The atmosphere was incredible! Supporters cheered all the way along the route, and the start and finish lines had a carnival-like atmosphere. Music was blaring and everyone was in high spirits. – Molly

Molly also shares her pride for our runners’ bravery and dedication by completing this personal challenge for our pupils.

It was amazing to see so many participants for various charities. I was immensely proud to see our runners sporting our Action Tutoring t-shirts through Birmingham’s streets! – Molly

Finish line celebrations

After the race, Molly met our fundraisers who were all enthusiastic about their experience, calling it both fun and rewarding.

Orla and Molly are colleagues from QBE, of which Action Tutoring is the UK community partner of their Foundation. The two of them had a great time at the race, celebrating afterwards with some well-deserved pizza! Thank you to QBE for matching their donations!

During the race’s tougher moments, Justina drew inspiration from a pupil she tutored as an Action Tutoring volunteer. Remembering the positive change she made in their educational journey helped her push forward.

John said he felt humbled by the support he had received. This includes his family and friends with their generous donations, and his daughter, who cheered him on at race day.

Triumphant fundraising

It’s wonderful to see these fundraisers raising money to support Action Tutoring’s nationwide work and representing us in Birmingham, where we have over 170 pupils at 7 schools! Thanks so much!! – Alex Wilson, Midlands Programme Manager

The team of four collectively raised an incredible £5,478.24, rising to £6,485.74 with Gift Aid!

This staggering amount could provide a year of face-to-face tutoring for 13 pupils. It could also provide enhanced DBS checks for 600 volunteer tutors!

Thank you to our team of four that ran in this event in aid of our important work. We sincerely appreciate your effort and commitment to helping us close the attainment gap and tackle education inequality head on! – Hannah O’Neill, Head of Philanthropy

Fight education inequality with us!

Inspired by Orla, Molly, John, and Justina’s achievements? You can be a champion for education equality too!

• Run or cycle for our cause: We have charity spots open at summer sporting events. See the full list on our fundraising page.
• Dream up your own challenge: Can’t find the perfect event? Contact Molly, our Fundraising Coordinator (molly.cottrill@actiontutoring.org.uk), to discuss your own fundraising ideas – sports or otherwise!