Thank you to our partners

September saw a group of extraordinary individuals leave their comfort zones and achieve an incredible physical feat. Over the course of 31 days this team adventurers travelled over 1700kms, climbing nearly 34,000 metres, under human power – all to raise £1 million for education charity, Big Change.

The Virgin STRIVE Challenge journey started in southern Sardinia and ended at the top of the highest peak in Europe – Mont Blanc. Over 200 people took part throughout the month – all united in a belief that a fundamental change is needed in our education system, and that amazing things can be achieved when a group of people come together.

Our Strivers hiked, biked, and kayaked. They experienced tears, despair, elation and joy. But above all they helped each other and discovered that it’s people and community that make spectacular things happen. From the polar explorer to the office worker who picked up a bike for the first time three months ago – we all have something to offer. And the money raised from STRIVE will help create a system that supports all young people to thrive in life – no matter what their background.

We are incredibly grateful for the support of our partners that made this magical event happen.

Huge thanks to Cotswold Outdoor for your support and the kit that helped us through tough hiking on the GR20 in Corsica and to the top of Mont Blanc.

Massive thanks to Giordana Cycling for your support and clothing – our team cycled over 1000km in total, and conquered some iconic Tour de France climbs. They looked professional even when their muscles were straining!

Thanks too to SeenIt – who helped us tell the individual stories of our Strivers on social media through video, and bring this the event to life for everyone back home.

We’re are immensely proud of what we have achieved together.