As the Moorland Federation’s three Heads of School prepared for their ambitious ‘Heads up for Air Rescue’ challenge, pupils across all eight schools added their own special contribution, writing thoughtful, heartfelt prayers to support the cyclists on their journey.
Mr James (Dunster First School), Mr Jon Moise-Souch (Langford Budville Primary School) and Mrs Lucy Walker-Blair (St Dubricius First School, Porlock) cycled between every school within the Federation in a single day to raise money for the Air Ambulance. While the Heads were busy training, pupils have been playing an important role in lifting their spirits and cheering them on. Across classrooms, children have taken time to reflect on the challenge, the cyclists’ determination, and the importance of helping others. Their prayers have been filled with encouragement, hope and kindness. From wishes for safe travels, to gratitude for the Air Ambulance, to messages celebrating teamwork and courage, you can view a selection here:
Written prayers
Spoken prayers
Commenting upon this wonderful effort, Ed Gregory, Director of Education at the Diocese of Bath and Wells said: ‘What a great story from our friends across the Moorland Federation of schools. As a diocese we have long standing links with the schools in many ways and the enthusiasm for this worthy challenge reflects the wonderful Moorland Federation positivity. I am delighted that their support includes such thoughtful prayers from the children, reflecting the Christian character of many of the schools. We join with the children in offering our prayers and support to the Heads taking the challenge.’
Teachers have described the activity as a powerful moment of community connection, with pupils of all ages showing empathy and enthusiasm for the challenge. Many children linked their prayers to themes explored in collective worship: perseverance, compassion, faith and caring for others. Examples of the children’s prayers included:
- ‘Thank you for the air ambulance that helps people who need urgent help.
- Please give them energy and strength.
- Please keep them safe.’
These messages accompanied the cyclists as they set off, and were a source of motivation during the steep climbs and long miles across Exmoor. Head of School, Jon Moise-Souch, said: ‘The children’s prayers mean so much to us. Their words capture exactly why we’re doing this; community, kindness, and supporting a service that is so vital to our rural area.’
The pupils’ prayers stand as a reminder of the strength of community spirit that underpins every step — and every pedal — of this challenge.
The Federation is thrilled to share that not only did the teachers complete the challenge, they have already exceeded their fundraising target, but they’re keen to go even further and want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has been able to donate so far: Naomi Philip, Executive Head teacher said: ‘I am so proud of my leadership and staff teams across our federation each and every day because they always go above and beyond for our children and families. This event just shows the lengths they will 'ride' to to make a real difference in our communities! This is such an important charity so please donate via our Just Giving page and support their efforts.’