Each year, the St Sampson’s School climbing wall turns into a beacon of community spirit for three days, as islanders young and old join forces to raise funds, pass the harness like a baton, and reach the combined height of 8,848m – the equivalent of Mount Everest.
It raises funds for Le Murier’s residential and outdoor learning experiences, which are an integral part of its learning.
The various trips, held on and off-island throughout the year, teach its pupils life skills with character building adventures, and a taste of independent living away from home.
The popular, inclusive climbing event which started on Thursday, drew to a close on Saturday.
Though the final tally would not quite match the previous year’s ‘exceptional’ £20,000 mark, Le Murier’s deputy head and Everest Challenge co-runner, Chris Harvey, said that he thought it would reach £15,000.
‘That’s a massive amount of money for two and a half days,’ he said on Saturday afternoon.
‘It’s been another great event. The vibe has been brilliant.
‘We’ve had over 1,000 people climbing the wall.
‘A lot of really familiar faces from over the years, with schools, youth groups and some local business teams.
‘It’s something people really look forward to each year.
‘Last night we had a lot of Scout groups in, and must’ve had about 150 people in there, it was buzzing. It’d be nice to see more businesses get on board, but we’re very happy – it’s been really successful.’
Gary Dovey, who launched the event 33 years ago, has recently retired, but continues to pull his weight on the climb, co-running the challenge with Mr Harvey.
‘An awful lot of work goes in to organising this, and getting it all set up,’ said Mr Harvey.
‘We need all hands on deck, so we got Gary back and he’s been here the whole time helping.’
From a 15-month-old to an ex-staff member of 72, the wall has challenged all ages. Le Murier teacher, Robyn Craig, was excited to show her baby, Wren, the ropes.
‘We do it every year,’ she said.
‘I’ve worked here for that long and it’s such a family event that I was happy to bring Wren along. She’s 15 months, and she loved it.’
Wrapping up the event at one of the final time slots was rock climbing group, Up Climbing.
‘We’re in the squad and go away to competitions,’ said 13-year-old Katherine Holroyd, climbing alongside her younger sister, Josephine.
‘It’s our third time doing this event, and it’s really nice to come and support for a good cause. I love climbing.
‘It’s different.
‘I like that it’s problem-solving, and both mentally and physically challenging.’