Class Seven and Eight completed an impressive eight laps of the playground every day from mid-June to mid-July to reach their goal. Even the hottest temperatures on record could not stop the determined seven and eight-year-olds, who took on the challenge in the cooler mornings instead.

On their final day of running the pupils enjoyed a visit from the Trust’s very own Ms Badger who thanked them for all of their hard work.

The children have taken part in a variety of wild challenges at school as part of their Great Outdoors topic, including building a Buggingham Palace bug hotel and bird feeders from recycled materials.  

They have been locating National Parks and learning about habitats as well as exploring their own school grounds.

Their final challenge was to raise money for a charity that preserves wildlife and the children did not disappoint, raising an incredible £478.57 for the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust thanks to the support of family and friends.

Sandra Horner, Supporter Journey Officer for Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, said: “Everyone at the Trust is so impressed with the Year Threes, a mile a day in this heat cannot have been easy. We are always encouraging young people to get involved with the wildlife on their doorstep so it’s fantastic to see the interest and enthusiasm from Class Seven and Eight.”

Teachers Miss Gavagan and Miss Rooney said: “We are incredibly proud of our Year Three children who showed great determination, enthusiasm and dedication throughout the whole fundraising experience. We hope they continue their love of the great outdoors and put all they have learnt into practice. Thank you to everyone who supported us.”

To find out more about the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and its work with young people go to nottinghamshirewildlife.org. For more information about Whitegate Primary and Nursery School visit www.whitegateprimary.co.uk