More than 3,000 pupils and hundreds of staff from 12 schools across Evolution Academy Trust have helped raise over £10,000 through a series of running events delivered by Norwich City Community Sports Foundation.

The Run Evolution Academy Trust Series saw children aged between two and 11 take part in events across Norfolk and Suffolk, encouraging physical activity, teamwork and inclusion while raising funds for their schools and the Foundation's wider community programmes.

Building on the success of the Foundation's Run Norwich Schools Challenge, the initiative brought the excitement and community spirit of the popular running event into schools, giving young people the opportunity to challenge themselves, celebrate their achievements and support worthwhile causes.

Working alongside teachers and school leaders, the Foundation's Fundraising and Schools teams delivered events across all 12 schools, with pupils encouraged to take part regardless of their age or ability.

Pupils come together for a good cause

The events provided an opportunity for children to embrace physical activity while supporting one another throughout the challenge.

Esmé and Flossie, Year 5 pupils from Filby Primary School, said: “We thought Run Filby was a brilliant event! Everyone showed fantastic sportsmanship and enthusiasm, and it was lovely to see all the children cheering each other on and offering so much encouragement. There was a real sense of teamwork and everyone gave it their best. It was also great to be part of an event that raised money for two good causes.”

Alongside the positive impact on pupils' wellbeing, the series generated more than £10,000 in fundraising.

Half of the money raised will be returned to participating schools to support projects and experiences, including a trip to the pantomime, while the remaining funds will contribute towards the Community Sports Foundation's work across the region.

The initiative was made possible through the efforts of the Foundation's Fundraising and Schools teams, who travelled across Norfolk and Suffolk, working closely with staff at each school to bring the events to life.

Celebrating teamwork and achievement

Emma Fletcher-Dungay, Head of Fundraising at the Community Sports Foundation, said: “The Run Evolution Academy Trust Series has been an incredible celebration of what can be achieved when schools come together around a shared goal. To see more than 3,000 pupils and hundreds of staff members take part across all 12 schools was truly inspiring.

“I’d like to thank every pupil, member of staff and volunteer who embraced the challenge with such enthusiasm. The funds raised will make a real difference, and we’re proud to have helped create so many positive experiences for people across the Evolution Academy Trust.”

The events also gave schools an opportunity to come together outside the classroom, with pupils of different ages and abilities taking part in a shared experience.

Ed Savage, Executive Headteacher of Angel Road Schools, said: “Working in partnership with the Community Sports Foundation for Run Angel Road has been a great opportunity for our children to engage in physical activity, taking inspiration from Run Norwich. We were so impressed by the children’s effort and enjoyment at our event; it was a chance for us all to come together to raise money by either walking, jogging or running the course and to then celebrate our successes together as a school community.”

For those taking part, the encouragement and support shown throughout the events proved just as important as reaching the finish line.

Theia, a pupil from Wensum Junior School, said: “The run was really inclusive, and everyone was cheering each other on”, while fellow student Kacie said: “I really enjoyed giving people high fives and seeing the pride on their faces.”

Through its partnership with Evolution Academy Trust, Norwich City Community Sports Foundation has demonstrated how sport can bring school communities together, encourage healthy lifestyles and create meaningful opportunities for young people.

The success of the series highlights the impact of collaboration between schools, charities and local communities, with thousands of pupils benefiting from an initiative that will continue to make a difference beyond the finish line.

Norwich City Foundation helps schools raise over £10,000

Norwich City Foundation helps schools raise over £10,000