Warwick runners raise over £1,700 to support local young people

A team of dedicated University of Warwick staff, students, alumni, and supporters have raised an impressive £1,724 for local learning centre IntoUniversity Coventry.

The fundraising, which has taken place over the past five years has seen the team conquer the annual Cotswold Hilly 100 – a challenging 100-mile relay race through the hills of the Cotswolds, organised by Stratford Athletics Club.

Known as Team Warwick Uni, the runners have participated in the race every year since 2021 to raise vital funds to support IntoUniversity Coventry’s work with young people in the region.

In partnership with University of Warwick, education charity IntoUniversity runs two local learning centres – in Coventry and East Birmingham – offering a programme of academic support, pastoral care, and mentoring for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The Coventry centre, which celebrated its fifth anniversary in 2024, has seen more than 400 of its students gain a place at university since opening. Notably, 64% of students who attend the centre go on to progress to university, compared with just 30% of students from similar backgrounds nationally.

This impact is made possible thanks to the commitment of fundraisers like those in this year’s ten-person team, as well as the generous support of donors who contributed to their efforts. Among the fundraisers were Associate Professor Peter Brommer from Warwick’s School of Engineering, who has recruited new team members each year since joining the fundraisers in 2017, and former Community Fundraiser at University of Warwick, Charlotte Maytum, who originally introduced him to Team Warwick Uni.

Peter said:

"The IntoUniversity project sits close to my heart, coming from parents who never experienced university. I was privileged to grow up reasonably well-off, without caring responsibilities, and with parents who supported my education and recognised its importance – having missed out themselves. However, I see the barriers faced by children without academic role models or the support needed to meet admission criteria at top universities.

“I believe we must do more to make university accessible to everyone. Having lived in Coventry for 13 years, I want others in my community to have the same opportunities I had. IntoUniversity, with its strong track record, is a great way to help make that possible.”

Denise Hombiro, Centre Leader for IntoUniversity Coventry, said:

"We are incredibly grateful to University of Warwick for their generous sponsorship and continued support of IntoUniversity Coventry. Their donations have enriched the lives of our students, helping us deliver programmes that inspire and broaden horizons. This year, funding supported a memorable arts project culminating in a trip to the Herbert Art Gallery – an experience many students still talk about fondly.

“Their backing has also helped students develop confidence, independence, and friendships in new environments. A special thank you goes to Team Warwick Uni for their fantastic fundraising efforts, which enables us to continue creating transformative opportunities for young people in our community."