Our Nominated Charities
As a school, we support two charities that sit close to our heart.
Our local nominated charity – Reuben's Retreat
In year 8, IDP students learn about the roles played by public institutions and voluntary groups in society and the ways in which citizens work together to improve their communities. As part of this unit, there is an opportunity for students to develop their active citizenship skills: working to either promote or raise funds for a nominated charity through an enterprise activity. The school’s local nominated charity is Reuben’s Retreat.
Reuben’s Retreat is a local charity that was born in memory of Reuben Michael Graham, who tragically passed away in August 2012, aged just 23 months. The mission of Reuben’s Retreat is to “to relieve the distress of families who have suffered the bereavement of a child or have a child suffering from a life-limiting/threatening illness” by walking side-by-side with:
- Children and young people who have a life-limiting and/or life-threatening illness and their parents and siblings
- Parents and siblings that have a lost a child
They do so through a range of support services, including counselling, bereavement breaks, support groups and activity and therapy days. Further information about the work that Reuben’s Retreat does can be found on their website, www.reubensretreat.org.
Our national nominated charity – Teenage Cancer Trust
For our national nominated charity, we are proud to support Teenage Cancer Trust and focus many of our fundraising efforts on the incredible work they do.
This charity holds a special place in our hearts. Over the years, too many members of our school community have been affected by cancer, and, tragically, we lost one of our students, Haaris, in March 2026. His courage, resilience, and character continue to inspire our school, and supporting Teenage Cancer Trust is one way we can honour his memory while helping other young people facing similar challenges.
Teenage Cancer Trust provides specialist care and dedicated support to teenagers and young adults with cancer, ensuring they receive not only the best possible treatment but also emotional and practical support during an incredibly difficult time. Their work helps young people and their families navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis with dignity, compassion, and hope.
Since Haaris's passing, our school community has come together to organise a range of fundraising events in his memory. Thanks to the generosity and commitment of our students, staff, families, and wider community, we have raised more than £2,000 for Teenage Cancer Trust. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and remain committed to supporting this important cause in the years to come.
The Haaris Ansari Award
Established in memory of our beloved student, Haaris, who lost his life to cancer, this award recognises a student who exemplifies exceptional resilience, integrity, and strength of character. It honours someone who demonstrates courage in the face of adversity, treats others with compassion and respect, and inspires those around them through perseverance and a positive spirit.
