Leigh Academy Oaks was alive with excitement and anticipation throughout the week leading up to our most talked-about event of the year so far, ‘Leigh Academy Oaks – Gunging’, in support of Children in Need 2024. This unique fundraising initiative sparked a surge of healthy competition across the academy, bringing pupils, staff, and parents together in an engaging and spirited effort to raise funds for an important cause.
The idea was simple but effective: pupils cast their votes for which staff member they wanted to see gunged by placing donations in their chosen staff member’s bucket. With a lineup that included some of our most ‘brave’ members of staff – Mr. Coulson, Mrs. Mehigan, Mr. Powell, Mr. Perkins, Karen, Mrs. Lawrence, Miss Brandon, and Miss Thew – the excitement grew exponentially as the week unfolded. Pupils eagerly contributed their coins and notes, making each day a new twist in the race to the top.
As the week progressed, it became clear that the competition was fiercer than anyone could have anticipated. The race for first place became an intense showdown between Mr. Powell and Mr. Perkins, both of whom rallied tremendous support from pupils and parents alike to make each other the winner/victim. Their dedication to the cause and willingness to be gunged spurred on donations and created a buzz that spread beyond the walls of the academy. Parents enthusiastically joined in, supporting their children’s efforts and getting behind choosing which staff member to vote for.
By Friday afternoon, the moment everyone had been waiting for finally arrived. The entire academy gathered, and parents were invited to join the celebration, creating a wonderful community atmosphere filled with laughter and cheer. The anticipation in the air was palpable as Mr. Perkins, after a dramatic week-long battle, emerged as the winner – or perhaps the most good-natured ‘victim’ of the event. With a cheer from the crowd, he began to embrace that it was solely him, until there was a secondary shock announcement. There had been a last minute donation that levelled Mr Perkins and Mr Powell to £200 each so there would be a double gunging! Both of them were rewarded with a soaking of colourful gunge, with added ‘baked beans’ to the amusement of all that were there to watch.
The event not only created memories and strengthened the community spirit but also set a new record for charitable contributions at Oaks. Thanks to the combined efforts of our generous pupils, supportive parents, and enthusiastic staff, we raised an incredible £661.83 – the most our academy has ever raised for a single charity event. This accomplishment speaks volumes about the compassion and commitment of our academy community.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated, donated, and supported this fantastic cause. Leigh Academy Oaks is proud to have contributed to Children in Need 2024, and we look forward to more fun-filled, impactful events in the future!
A video of the event can be seen HERE