Burnley High School teachers making debut in rugby match in aid of Pendleside Hospice
Two Burnley school leaders are set to trade the classroom for the rugby pitch in he new year — all in the name of charity.
Burnley High School’s deputy headteacher Jonathan Howarth and assistant headteacher Oliver Roberts will make their rugby debuts on Saturday January 10, taking part in a match at Rossendale Rugby Club to raise funds for Pendleside Hospice.
Neither has ever played rugby before — but both will be throwing themselves into training (and a few tackles).
Mr Howarth said: “We wanted to do something that would challenge us, make people smile, and most importantly, raise as much as we can for such a vital cause. Although… we might regret it after the first scrum! It’s about teamwork, community, and giving back. Whether we win, lose, or limp off halfway through — we’ll know it’s all been worth it for Pendleside.”
Mr Roberts added:”“Neither of us has ever played in a rugby game before, but the support from our school community has been brilliant. The pupils are loving it — though they’re taking bets on how long we’ll last on the pitch!”
Headteacher Ms Lewis added: “We talk to our students all the time about resilience, teamwork, and stepping outside your comfort zone — and this is a brilliant example of that in action. Mr Howarth and Mr Roberts are showing what it means to lead with heart, humour, and humanity. We couldn’t be prouder of them.”
The game will kick off at 3pm.Donations can be made via the school’s justgiving page.