Latymer Upper School’s Annual Charity Skydive

On Sunday 11th May, another contingent of 14 valiant Year 12 students joined the elite squadron of Latymerians, past and present, who have parted company with an aeroplane for charity. This brings the running total 122 students who have skydived, along with 11 Latymer staff. They were led by the History Department’s veteran skydiver, Mr Bladon who started the trip back in 2001 and who retires at the end of this academic year.

All assembled at school at 5am. The plane that takes them up to the height of 2 miles has no seats. Everyone is attached to their instructor using metal fasteners that are so strong they can carry the weight of a small car. After a 20 minute climb, the roller blind opened and they shuffled along the floor. They sat on the ledge. Then they plunged for a mile in 30 seconds, hurtling towards the ground at 125mph. When the parachute opens they slow down to 30mph and take another 4 or 5 minutes before landing. The conditions were perfect – endless blue sky and light winds.

Between them, this year’s skydivers have so far raised over £5,750 for M-LISADA, the organization in Kampala, Uganda that works to support street children. We are genuinely so grateful to everyone who sponsored us. It’s a brilliant organization that Latymer has been involved with for many years. If you’d like to help its work in helping to change the lives of young people then you can make a donation by clicking here. 

In October, Latymer is taking another cohort of students to Uganda to see how this charity transforms the lives of young people and to learn how they can become part of that process. It’s a life-changing experience for everyone involved. 

Author: Sohni Malde