Climbing high in support of Le Murier School

The school’s outdoor education and residential programme allows students to travel abroad frequently.

Providing these experiences develops invaluable life and independence skills.

Le Murier’s outdoor adventure co-ordinator Gary Dovey said: ‘We have 136 teams with a few slots still available. There’s about a 50-50 split of regulars and newcomers this year.’

To match the 8,848m height of Everest, around 86 teams of up to 10 people ascend 15 times.

‘Different schools, clubs, businesses, and even pubs are involved. It really is a complete community effort.’

All ages are welcome.

‘Children from five upwards will climb the easier wall. The challenge is open to elderly climbers. One gentleman supporting his granddaughter ended up having a go at 86.’

Climbers are well supported with a harness.

‘With a hoist seat we can accommodate wheelchair users. It is inspired by a Lake District hoist and the chair can go up too.’

Community contributions ensure the success of the challenge.

‘A huge thanks to Only Fools And Donkeys as our main sponsor who replace equipment that’s reached the end of its lifespan. Each year all ropes, 20 harnesses and 20 helmets need replacing, costing around £2,500. Without their help we could not offer so much.

‘Guernsey Mountaineering Club volunteers man the ropes – to them we are very grateful. Equiom supply all the volunteers’ T-shirts easily identifying those belaying, making it all much safer. A big thanks to them too.’

Trips are funded by the money raised by the previous year’s challenge.

‘If we raise £5,000 we’ll spend that much next year. If the figure is higher then more goes in.’

Year 7 and 8 students visit Lihou and Herm and Year 9 visit Wales.

Sensory and communication students travel to Jersey.

All those in Years 9, 10 and 11 undertake the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

‘Other school students may do two trips in their entire school career. Our students do one or two a year if possible. This is hugely beneficial and teaches invaluable skills,’ said Mr Dovey.

‘Frequent trips can be costly for parents, so we started the Everest Challenge 27 years ago. Because we did, the programme has expanded to the success it is today.’