Danes Hill School’s Head Runs Half Marathon

Maxine Shaw, Head of Danes Hill School, a Prep School in Oxshott, Surrey recently completed the Royal Parks Half Marathon, in support of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. Mrs Shaw ran alongside colleague, Gail Greenwood, completing the stunning 13.1 mile route.

On Sunday 9th October, both runners joined 16,000 participants gathered at the Royal Parks Half Marathon’s start point, South Carriage Drive in Hyde Park, to embark on a challenging and unforgettable run.

Mrs Greenwood said: ‘I was thrilled to run a half marathon alongside Maxine, we endured a grueling training process in preparation for the day, but it was all worth it as we crossed the finish line in support of a charity that is close to our hearts.’

The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity raises money solely to support The Royal Marsden, a world leading cancer centre. They ensure our nurses, doctors and research teams can provide the very best care and develop life saving treatments, which are used across the UK and around the world. From funding state of the art equipment and groundbreaking research, to creating the very best patient environments, they will never stop looking for ways to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.

Maxine Shaw commented: ‘This was my third half marathon and I feel it may be time to hang up my running shoes! I am incredibly grateful to the parent body at Danes Hill for their support in my efforts to raise money for a very worthwhile cause. The Royal Marsden is a wonderful local charity and the work they do has helped so many people, including two of my close friends, who have both sadly died of bowel cancer in the last three years.’

Mrs Shaw joined Danes Hill School in April 2022 furthering a long career in education. After six years as head of Pilgrim’s Pre-Prep, she became Head at Hazelwood Prep School, Oxted for six years before moving in 2016 to St Paul’s Junior School in Barnes.

By taking on the challenge, Mrs Shaw and Mrs Greenwood delivered a powerful lesson to the Danes Hill community on character, commitment, dedication, and resilience.

Year 8 pupil and Head of Charities said: ‘I feel inspired by Mrs Shaw and Mrs Greenwood’s determination to train and prepare for a half marathon. I feel encouraged to strive for my own accomplishments and achievements and this year, my goal as Head of Charites is to bring our school community together, to raise as much money as possible in support of some amazing charities.’

To find out more about Danes Hill School and their ethos of giving back to the local community,
visit www.daneshillschool.co.uk.

See Danes Hill’s online listing here.