A North London primary headteacher and her pupils will be taking part in this year’s TCS London Marathon in aid of leading children’s charity, the NSPCC.
Barbara Costa, who is headteacher of St. Theresa’s Catholic Primary School in Barnet, and Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School in Finchley, will be participating in the 43rd London Marathon on Sunday 21st April.
This year’s marathon will be Barbara’s fourth time participating, having raised vital funds for the NSPCC twice before. However, this time, 70 children from both schools – 50 from Our Lady of Lourdes and 20 from St Theresa’s, will be supporting her by taking part in a mini marathon the day before (20th April).
The mini marathon will consist of the last mile of the usual 26.2 mile course and the children will be helping their headteacher to hit her target of £2,200.
Barbara said, “It’s so incredible that the children have decided to get involved in the mini marathon and help raise important funds with me for the NSPCC.
“There has always been a big NSPCC presence in both schools, with posters around the buildings highlighting how the charity helps to keep children and young people safe. These and our deputy headteacher have spurred me on to take up running and raise money for the charity, and I aim to do this until the day my body decides to give up!
“Thank you to everyone who has donated to our Just Giving page and thank you to the children for participating in such a worthy cause. Good luck to everyone!”
Stephanie Coleman, NSPCC Schools Fundraiser, said: “It’s amazing to hear that Barbara and her pupils are participating in the London Marathon and the mini marathon. Every penny they raise, will go towards helping keep children and young people safe, as well as providing advice and support when they most need it.
“We would like to thank Barbara and her pupils for their incredible support and wish them all good luck in the marathon, next Sunday.”
For more information about Barbara and her pupils’ fundraising, visit https://tinyurl.com/bdw92yrc