A Surrey headteacher and a Sussex assistant headteacher will run the London Marathon next month to raise money for disadvantaged schoolchildren.
Andrew Burbidge, headteacher at Banstead Infants School, and Gary Smallman, assistant headteacher of Southgate Primary School won their places via ballot to run the marathon.
Both are experienced runners, having run multiple marathons before. The 2026 London Marathon will take place on Sunday 26th April.
Both teachers are running the marathon for the GLF Schools’ Foundation, which raises money for disadvantaged children to have experiences like sporting or musical activities, which they might not otherwise be able to afford. Both schools are in the GLF multiacademy trust.
Established in 2022, the GLF Schools’ Foundation seeks to provide opportunities for all young people within GLF schools to have exposure to opportunities and experiences regardless of their financial background.
The Foundation aims to minimise the socio-economic barriers that exist, preventing young children from exploring, experiencing, and enjoying a variety of beneficially healthy activities.
Within GLF schools, there are approximately 4,000 students – almost 20% of the total number- who are recognised as disadvantaged through financial means.
The Foundation aims to support these students in accessing a breadth of opportunities to help them succeed in life.
The teachers aim to raise £1500 for charity, with around £200 already raised.
Gary and Andrew commented:
“We’re very pleased to be running for such a worthy cause, and are both training hard to hit our own personal targets.
“Training for a marathon is never easy, especially over the last few months in winter, but as headteachers we see the great work the GLF Foundation does to ensure all pupils have the opportunities they deserve. That’s what drives us on.”
Jak Martin, Foundation Director, said:
“We’re very grateful to Gary and Andrew for their huge commitment and their fundraising.
“The Foundation is all about ensuring all pupils have the experiences they deserve regardless of their background – whether that be in music, sport or trips.”
Donations can be made here.
