Highfield and Brookham Parent Runs Alpine Marathon for Bursary Fund

A Highfield and Brookham parent has completed one of Europe's toughest mountain marathons, taking on the formidable Verbier Marathon in Switzerland to raise funds for the school's Centenary Bursaries Fund.


Clare Woodward, whose two children attend the leading co-educational independent prep school in Liphook, Hampshire, completed the 43km race alongside her husband, Matt. The gruelling course climbs more than 3,000 metres through the Swiss Alps and is widely regarded as one of Europe's most demanding mountain marathons.

Inspired by the life-changing impact a bursary had on her late father's education, Clare took on the challenge in support of Highfield School Centenary Bursaries Fund. The Fund helps provide an independent education to children whose families would otherwise be unable to access one.

Since its launch in 2007, the fund has transformed the lives of 23 children, enabling them to benefit from the opportunities a Highfield and Brookham education provides.

Reflecting on completing the marathon, Clare said: 'We did it! 43kms and 3,000m of elevation along stunning mountain ridges, over intense climbs, down seriously steep mountainsides, as lightning struck the peaks around us, through thunderstorms and an incredible downpour. It was demanding, it was brutal and it was truly epic but, somewhat amazingly, I loved it. And the best part was being able to do it with my husband Matt.'

Mrs Suzannah Cryer, Head of Highfield and Brookham School, said: 'Clare has been nothing short of inspirational. To take on one of Europe's toughest mountain marathons requires immense commitment, and to do so in support of our Centenary Bursaries Fund makes her achievement even more special. We are incredibly fortunate to have parents like Clare, whose generosity will help create opportunities for children for years to come.'

Clare originally set herself a fundraising target of £2,000 but has already exceeded that goal, raising more than £3,000 for the Centenary Bursaries Fund. Donations remain open, with supporters still able to contribute by visiting: https://www.justgiving.com/page/clare-woodward-hscbf

The Centenary Bursaries Fund remains central to Highfield and Brookham's commitment to widening access to an independent education, with the School aiming to grow the fund to £2 million over the coming years.

July 2026