Ridge Foundation riders raise thousands for portable sensory room to support young people

Watch our video to see how a team of riders led by Ridge Foundation founder Darren Ridge raised thousands of pounds in a sponsored bike ride to support young people at Havant Academy.

A group of Darren’s colleagues and friends rode from Ridown’s headquarters in Whiteley to the school in Leigh Park, Havant. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, the event raised more than £30,000 – smashing the £20,000 target.

The funds raised will purchase a Cubbie unit – computer equipment which creates an immersive sensory space that can help pupils calm down and prepare for learning. The Academy has a large proportion of students who suffer from anxiety and behaviour problems, who will benefit from this technology.

Darren, who was a pupil at the Academy when it was known as Wakeford Comprehensive School, is a passionate supporter of the school through the Ridge Foundation. The foundation previously donated £30,000 to create The Ridge Centre, which is fitted with technology to support students who find it hard to work in a classroom environment. The hub is fitted with technology that allows students to listen to live lessons from their teachers remotely, while remaining in the school environment.