On Wednesday 18 March 2026, the St Christopher’s The Hall community will unite to collectively “climb” 8,848.86 metres, the height of Mount Everest, to fund a new indoor climbing wall for the school.
The St Christopher’s Everest Challenge will see pupils, staff, parents and alumni join forces to reach the world’s highest summit virtually. Pupils will tackle walking and running distances of up to 4.5km, while adults face a treadmill challenge set at a 10% incline to simulate the mountain’s steep ascent.
The event is deeply intertwined with the school’s history. In 1953, following the first-ever successful ascent of Everest, Sir Edmund Hillary made St Christopher’s his very first stop upon returning to England. Today, the school’s “Hillary House” stands as a tribute to that historic visit. The challenge also cheers on alumnus Tim Allardyce (Class of ’98), who is preparing for his own real-life Everest summit in May 2026.
“We’re excited to scale new heights. We hope to raise £8,848.86 – one pound for every metre of the summit. As a community working together, we know we can do it.” Tom Carter, Head of St Christopher’s
Tim Allardyce ’98 added “Everest has always captured people’s imaginations, as it’s the ultimate challenge. For me, my expedition is about resilience, never giving up and pushing beyond what you think is possible. It’s incredibly special to share this journey with my former school, St Christoper’s The Hall.”
The funds raised will install a new branded indoor traversing wall in the School Hall for the start of the next academic year. This high-energy climbing wall is designed to foster determination, resilience, and physical coordination in students for generations to come.
Beyond the physical climb, the day will feature a themed curriculum, exploring the food and geography of the Himalayas. The event will conclude at 15:30 with a community “summit push” celebration, featuring themed bakes, games, and cheering the final treadmill participants.
St Christopher’s calls on all alumni and friends of the school to support this legacy project via their official fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/st-christophers-everest-challenge
