Ride for Heathlands began in January 2026 when four Deaf fathers from Heathlands School came together with one goal, to support the vision of a new sports hall for Deaf children and young people.

What started as an ambitious challenge soon became something much bigger.

In May and June 2026, Jay Thomas-Morton, Scott Taylor and Nicolas Ansell successfully cycled almost 1,000 miles from John O'Groats to Land's End in just 13 days, supported every step of the way by driver and camper Paul Challinor. Together, they raised thousands of pounds and inspired supporters across the Deaf community and beyond.

The challenge may be complete, but the journey is far from over.

Ride for Heathlands has now evolved into a community fundraising movement, encouraging anyone connected to Heathlands School, pupils, families, staff, alumni and supporters, to take on sporting, physical or personal challenges in support of Deaf children and future generations.

Whether it is cycling, running, hiking, swimming, climbing, walking, kayaking or something completely different, every challenge can help raise awareness and support for the future sports hall project.

Heathlands School, the UK's largest BSL Deaf school, is working towards the vision of building a brand-new sports hall for its growing community, including primary, secondary and sixth form pupils. Around 160 Deaf children and young people will benefit from improved opportunities for sport, fitness, wellbeing and personal development in a fully accessible environment designed specifically for them.

Mental health and wellbeing remain at the heart of our mission. Deaf people experience significantly higher levels of isolation and mental health challenges than the wider population. We believe sport, physical activity and positive community connections can play a vital role in building confidence, resilience and lifelong wellbeing.

We also want to inspire the next generation of Deaf athletes. Former Heathlands pupils have proudly represented the Deaf community at international level, including winning medals at the 2026 Deaf Olympics.

We hope future generations will have even greater opportunities to achieve their sporting potential.

Ride for Heathlands is built on four values:

> Resilience

> Inspiration

> Determination

> Endurance

Every mile cycled.

Every step walked.

Every peak climbed.

Every length swum.

Together, we challenge ourselves so future generations can thrive.

100% of donations made through this page go directly towards Heathlands School's sports hall fundraising project. No donations are used for personal expenses.

If you would like to support our mission, please donate, share our story, or take on your own challenge as part of Ride for Heathlands.

Follow our journey:

Thank you for supporting Heathlands School and helping create opportunities for Deaf children and young people for generations to come.