Hi all I’m Becca.

Last year when I turned 40 I decided I wanted to do something to raise money for a cause close to my heart, so when my son’s school opened up a new classroom for children who needed a bit of extra support in January this year I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to do some fundraising for them.

Unfortunately, like all school across the country, there is a lack of funding and opening up this new classroom has already stretched a very tight budget! However, as a parent of a child with Autism, I want to tell you how much of a godsend this class really it. Although he was doing ok in his old class thanks to the brilliant support from his teachers and other peers, my son was just beginning to struggle after moving up to Year 1 from Reception and keep up with some aspects of learning. Being in a class of 30 could be quite overwhelming and some days he really found it too much. In his new class, my son is absolutely thriving - we really do need more of these classes in schools all over as they really do benefit the children! Other parents have also said what a difference this class opening up has made on their child.

There are 12 pupils and 4 staff members which enables the children to have the extra support they need. My son functions better with routine which the new class gives him. He now knows all the days of the week and what activities he will be doing each day which helps both me and him to communicate about the day he’s has. He has also been learning British Sign language and has come home teaching me! I am so proud of him and how hard he tries and I feel this class is one of the best things that could have happened for him - he seems very happy there.

I would like to be able to give a bit back by helping to raise funds for whatever the class need or chooses that will benefit all the children who attend there now and for the future. I have chosen to do a sponsored bike ride from Coalville to Skegness! I have talked my best friend Charlotte into joining me for company along the way. We are by no means professional cyclists - in fact, I don’t think I’ve ridden a bike since my own school days until now! So, I am practicing as hard as I can and I am determined I will do this! We will be setting off at around 6am on the 23rd May. According to Google it will take 9 hours to get there cycling as is between 98- 102 miles, but I have a feeling it could take us a bit longer than that although we will definitely finish within one day! I’m very excited but also a bit nervous, however when I cross the finish line I know it will all be very worth it.

I would be very grateful for any donations big or small, towards our Ash class fundraiser. Thank you so much! Becca x

P.S. I will also set up a page on Facebook to follow our journey along the way if anyone wants to.