Wayne Hartley, 58, from Mill Hill, Blackburn, has spent the past 16 years leading an annual fundraising challenge at Darwen Vale High School in support of Derian House Children’s Hospice.
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What started in 2010 with just six pupils raising £100 has grown into one of the school’s biggest traditions – with hundreds of students and former pupils taking part each year.
A tradition built on sweat and spirit
At the heart of the fundraising is an intense, army-style circuit training challenge held in the school sports hall.
This week marked Mr Hartley’s final event before retirement – and it was as tough as ever.
Around 30 pupils and former students took on the full-day endurance challenge, while another 60 got involved through their own fundraising efforts – from running and swimming to dance challenges and even an 11-hour Morris dance.
Mr Hartley said:
“I can’t begin to tell you how proud I am of every single young person who has taken part in this challenge over the years.
“It’s become a real part of the school calendar – something students remember long after they leave. They give it everything, and they do it with a smile because they know what they’re doing it for.”
More than just fundraising
Over the years, the initiative has done far more than raise money.
Mr Hartley has regularly taken pupils to visit Derian House, helping them understand first-hand the impact of their efforts.
For many, that experience has stayed with them long after leaving school.
Former pupil Ryan Walmsley, now a Community Ambassador for the hospice, said:
“What I took from Mr Hartley went beyond teaching. He showed us how to support others and be better people.”
Others have gone on to organise their own fundraising events, while some now work with the hospice itself.
A personal connection
Mr Hartley said the cause resonated deeply with students because of its local impact.
“Many pupils knew families who had used the hospice, or had some kind of connection,” he said.
“It helped them understand just how important places like Derian House are.”
Derian House, based in Chorley, supports more than 400 babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions across the North West.
A lasting legacy
For Derian House, Mr Hartley’s contribution has been transformational.
Mick Croskery, Head of Income Generation at the hospice, said:
“What Wayne has achieved is truly special. Not only has he raised £100,000, but he has inspired compassion and understanding in so many young people.”
Despite stepping away from teaching, Mr Hartley says he won’t be slowing down just yet.
With 16 grandchildren and plans for travel ahead, retirement will be busy – but his impact on the Darwen community is already firmly secured.
And thanks to one final push this week, his “last lesson” has helped take the fundraising total to a remarkable £100,000.
