Little Feet, Big Hearts: Redwood Preschool Marches 500 Miles for BftF

Over the course of just one month, the smallest members of the Redwood Early Years community proved that you don’t need to be big to make a big difference.

With joyful determination and boundless energy, the preschoolers collectively walked an astonishing 500 miles—all in support of Building for the Future.

Each day, small groups of two-to-five-year-olds, led by their devoted teachers, set off on one-mile sponsored walks across fields, through nature, and under wide open skies.

What started as a daily adventure soon became a mission powered by laughter, learning, and little legs that refused to quit.

“It was really lovely,” said Deputy Head Ella Carroll, who co-led the initiative with Head Teacher Sarah Gresty.

“Getting the children out in the fresh air, amongst nature, across the three fields, was good for them. They were exploring the outdoors and having fun. They loved it.”

Dubbed the March for March, the initiative seamlessly blended outdoor exploration with curriculum learning. Children embarked on nature walks, shared picnics, and discovered the joy of movement as a group.

“We took part in a community walking event the year before – and even won a trophy for it – and realised how beneficial it is to be out and about, exercising and exploring,” continued Ella.

“As well as racking up the miles for Building for the Future each day – it was good for their wellbeing.

“It was a push to get to the 500 mile-mark but the children wouldn’t let us forget. They’d say: ‘Are we going out today?’”

Echoing the inclusivity that is the core of Building for the Future, no one was left out of the march.

“Everyone took part and those with additional needs were in a buggy or given extra assistance,” added Ella.

“We hold our special events at Our House and now when we go, we can show the children what we were raising money for.”

Head teacher Sarah Gresty said that parents really liked the initiative for the benefits it brought to the children and hopes to do another march next year. Soon she has plans to hold an ice cream sale to support the new Our House in Thames Valley Park.