Nicola Coupe, Principal of Burbage Primary School, is one seriously devoted head teacher! Nicola is preparing to jump out of an aeroplane at 15,000ft to raise money to develop her ‘growing school’.

On the 17th June, Nicola, who has an inherent fear of heights, will take the plunge in a bid to raise £8,500 towards fitting out the school’s new classroom and developing the school grounds as an outside classroom. This will include the creation of a butterfly-friendly wildlife area, fencing for the school’s chickens, vegetable and flower plots and a mud kitchen.

The school is looking to develop its ‘growing school’ status by improving the facilities for outside learning, which is a strong focus. The school team believe that learning outside the classroom and gaining real-life experience enable students to become global citizens. Nicola says: “It’s not only about what the children learn but how and where they learn. Outdoor lessons add value to classroom learning, helping to raise achievement and supporting development of key life skills such as problem-solving, co-operation and communication. The children at Burbage Primary School love our outdoor spaces as they offer opportunities for them to explore their creativity and sense of adventure!”

However, with crucial funds required for the development of the outdoor space, Nicola has found herself agreeing to do a sky dive in order to raise money. At 15,000ft, Nicola will be doing the highest skydive available in the UK and freefalling for 60 seconds. Nicola explains: “I can’t think about it too much as I am utterly terrified at the prospect. A whole minute feels like a long time to be falling through the sky! But, at Burbage Primary School we encourage our children to challenge themselves and that is exactly what I am doing in agreeing to jump out of an aeroplane! It’s a real moment of facing my fear!”

Nicola will be jumping with GoSkyDive near Salisbury, and the team there have assured the children of Burbage Primary School that they will look after their Principal! Nicola will also be joined by the Reception Class teacher, Bev Thompson, and one of the parents at the school, Anita Campbell who have offered their support by agreeing to jump too!

Nicola has set up a fundraising page where people can donate to her cause.