The Headteacher of Llanidloes High School conquered his fear of heights by jumping out of a plane from 10,000 feet. Mr Owen has so far raised over £5000 towards a brand new Pupil Support ‘Cymorth’ Centre and an extension of the school’s Autistic Spectrum Centre.
Lorna from the Friends of Llanidloes High School said, “We have such a large fundraising target we knew it had to be something big to get us kick started. When we suggested to Mr Owen that he throw himself out of a plane we didn’t really think he would say yes but we have been amazed by his commitment to the school. We also can’t thank Potters Group and Llanidloes Doctors enough for sponsoring the jump fees enabling us to make sure 100% of money raised goes towards the new unit.”
Mr Owen said, ‘Plunging towards the earth at 125mph whilst hoping the bit of cloth attached to someone else’s back would hold our joint weight wasn’t exactly my idea of fun. Having said that, the views of the Gower peninsula from three miles up are truly breath-taking. More importantly, we’ve really kick-started our fundraising efforts. Our wonderful ‘Friends of Llanidloes High School’ – who organised the skydive – have been amazed and humbled by the generosity of members of our marvellous local community. Local businesses, charitable organisations and pupils have pulled together to help us meet the needs of some the most amazing, wonderful children you could ever wish to meet. We are truly thankful!’
Mrs Margot Jones, Chair of Governors at Llanidloes High School, said, ‘After receiving the accolade of being named one of the top 10 state schools in Wales by the ‘The Times’, we have refused to stand still. The Governing Body and our wonderful team of staff are determined improve the school still further for the sake of the children entrusted to our care. We have an inspirational vision to create state-of-the-art support facilities that cater for pupils most in need of literacy, numeracy, digital, social and emotional support in a nurturing learning environment.’
Mr Owen added, ‘It is no secret that finances are exceptionally tight in Powys schools. We appreciate that our colleagues at the Local Authority are stuck between a rock and a hard place when it comes to balancing the budget. So we’re doing whatever is needed to ensure Llanidloes High School pupils continue to flourish and thrive through a world class education.’