Pupils at a Cockermouth school are hoping to discover that where there’s muck there’s brass by launching an international fundraising mission.
The youngsters from St Joseph’s RC Primary School have created Boggy Jog – an obstacle course packed with mud and water – to raise money for Koala Hospital in New South Wales which is caring for bears hurt in the Australian bushfires.
They are holding the event in the grounds of the school on Sunday, March 8 at 10.30am and everyone is welcome to take part. Expect water slides, cargo nets, giant water pistols and soggy sponges flying through the air as competitors try to complete the course in the fastest time.
Teacher Joe Barnes, who looks after years four, five and six at the school, is leading the project. He said: “The children were really moved by the photographs they saw of the animals which had been burnt by the bushfires and wanted to do something to help.
“As a school, we are taking part in Cumbria’s Centre for Leadership Performance’s Bright Stars challenge which means they need to set up a mini ‘business’ so we thought this was the perfect opportunity to raise some money for the koalas.
“The students came up with the idea of Boggy Jog after deciding to organise a fun run. They wanted to make it a really different event so we figured adding some mud and water to the mix would be a great idea. It’s something that has got everyone really excited – especially when we let them get mucky in the playground for their first promotional photocall!
“We’re a small, family-friendly community in the school and it’s a great place for pupils with less confidence or those who need a bit of extra help to really shine. Bright Stars is a great way of bringing their learning to life so we’re really looking forward to launching our first event.”
Individuals and teams can enter Boggy Jog for just £1.50 per person. There’ll be an adults’ race, as well as classes for children of all ages, and the St Joseph’s team is thinking up other activities for the day to raise more money. Face painting, refreshments and a hosing-down area for mucky competitors will all be part of the messy fun.
To enter Boggy Jog or make a donation to Koala Hospital visit the website at www.boggyjog.co.uk or call the school on 01900 829859. Entries will also be allowed on the day. For the latest news about the event visit the Boggy Jog Facebook page.
The event sponsors include construction firm Balfour Beatty and The Vicky co-working space in Cockermouth. More sponsorship opportunities are available. Email [email protected] for details.
