CHILDREN at a school have been using lockdown to set themselves challenges and raise money for an array of different causes, including the school.

Inspired by Captain Tom, Chaloner Primary School, in Guisborough, launched the ‘Chaloner Challenge’ as a motivational activity for students to do at home with their families while the school remained closed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Children, supported by families and carers, chose what they wanted to take on, with some even giving themselves a time frame.

The range has been “amazing and truly inspirational” says the school.

While some children planted seeds, some hiked and others performed trampoline tricks, with many of the youngsters deciding to do their challenge for charity.

Seven-year-old Lexie, who is in year two, tasked herself with baking 30 cakes in 30 days.

Completing it in just nine days, she youngster has now raised £250 for the MS Society, a charity close to her heart after a recent diagnosis in the family.

Mum Jeanette Watson said: “This has been a really challenging time for Lexi and keeping busy baking is keeping her focused. The whole family is proud of her.”

While Chaloner School has remained open for vulnerable children and those of key workers, staff have communicated with parents of the about 250 children through social media, email and phone calls, offering support where they can alongside messages they are “not forgotten”.

The school has also hosted live assemblies in an attempt to keep the community connected, which was also the goal behind the self-directed challenges.

Head teacher Mary Parker said: “I am so proud of the hard work and support our families have provided for their children and each other during this difficult time and now they have extended that support to the wider community.

“They are all truly amazing and I can’t wait for the time I can say that to them all face to face.”

Student Louie walked 2.6 miles a day for four weeks, as well as giving up sweets and cake, to raise money for Zoe’s Place after his mum saw how charities are struggling with the cancellations of large fundraising events like the London Marathon.

The ten-year-old’s mum said: “Louie is a very kind and sensitive little boy, also a chocolate monster, and he loves helping people.’

So far, he has raised nearly £400 and has walked more than 23 miles.

Brothers Alfie, seven, and Cole, three, set themselves the challenge of climbing the five peaks of Guisborough on scooters and bikes and have raised £100 for the school’s Parents, Teachers and Friends Association (PTFA).

Meanwhile, six-year-old Nevaeh challenged herself to do 100 sear drops on her trampoline in one minute – smashing the target and managing 169 – and seven-year-old Miya, who loves gardening, filled10 tubs in under three minutes.

Following Government advice, the school has planned a phased reopening on June 1 but “will only implement it when scientific advice says it is safe to do so”.