Otford, Sevenoaks, Kent, UK – While most in the UK will be enjoying a quiet, summery weekend on June 12th–14th, a team of eight from Russell House School will be facing a ‘knife-edge’ challenge 4,413 feet above sea level.
The group is set to depart for a grueling 1,000-mile round trip to Fort William to climb Ben Nevis. However, they aren’t taking the standard mountain path. To raise much-needed funds for Demelza Children’s Hospice, the team has committed to the Càrn Mòr Dearg (CMD) Arête. This is a high-altitude, technical scramble that follows a narrow, rocky ridge connecting to the summit.
The challenge is expected to take up to 12 hours of continuous physical exertion. The goal? To raise at least £10,000 for Demelza, an organization that provides world-class clinical care and emotional support to children with terminal conditions and their families across the South East.
“The CMD Arête isn’t just a walk. It’s a serious test of nerves and stamina,” says Craig McCarthy, Russell House Headmaster, “But when you compare a long drive and a bit of vertigo to the incredible bravery shown by the children and families at Demelza every day, it puts the whole challenge into perspective. We want to hit that £10,000 mark to help ensure that no family has to face their challenges alone.”
The team is self-funding the travel and logistics to ensure that every penny raised goes directly to the hospice. Supporters can follow progress and contribute via the dedicated JustGiving donation page: www.justgiving.com/page/russell-house-2026.
About Russell House
Russell House is a co‑educational preparatory school conveniently located for families in Sevenoaks and surrounding areas in Kent. Rooted in a nurturing, calm atmosphere, the school offers a broad, inspiring curriculum and a strong focus on academic excellence. For ages 2 through to 11, pupils learn within an environment that fosters curiosity and confidence.
Russell House website: www.russellhouseschool.co.uk
About Demelza Hospice Care for Children
Demelza provides specialist hospice care for children and young people with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, offering services that range from clinical support to emotional care and family respite throughout Kent, South East London, and East Sussex.
Demelza website: www.demelza.org.uk
