Southport head teachers to undertake skydive in memory of former pupil Elsie Dot Stancombe

Two head teachers from Southport are preparing to undertake a remarkable challenge in memory of a much-loved former pupil.

Jennifer Sephton and Adrian Antell, Head Teachers of Farnborough Road Infants and Farnborough Road Juniors in Southport respectively, will complete a tandem skydive from 15,000 feet to raise funds for Elsie’s Story Charitable Trust. The Trust was established to honour the life and legacy of Elsie Dot Stancombe, a former student remembered fondly by the entire school community.

In support of the fundraising effort, the school has organised a ‘Break the Rules’ day, allowing pupils to make a donation in exchange for the chance to bend normal school guidelines. Children will be permitted to wear odd socks, have temporary tattoos, dance in class, mix with other year groups, and more—with 15 rules to be ‘broken’ in total, symbolising the 15,000 feet of the skydive.

The skydive will take place on Friday 21 June at Black Knights Skydive Centre. With preparations underway, both Jennie and Adrian have expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they’ve received from pupils, parents, staff and the wider community.

Jennie said:

“I would not be doing this on any normal day! This is a charity so close to both our hearts.

“It was always a privilege to teach Elsie and be part of her learning journey at Farnborough. She was such a charismatic, determined young lady who always had an infectious energy and a sparkle in her eyes.

“Elsie is our inspiration and we wanted to do something to honour her memory and celebrate her incredible spirit.”

Adrian added:

“Without a doubt we’re both going to be very scared when it comes to jumping! But we know Elsie would be absolutely overjoyed to know her teachers were doing a skydive for her.

“Elsie’s Story is such a wonderful charity that is determined to make positive long lasting change for the town and people of Southport. We want to show our unwavering commitment for the work they are determined to do.”

All donations towards Jennie and Adrian’s skydive will go to Elsie’s Story Charitable Trust and the community of Southport.

Donate here.

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