25 half marathons in 2025

Hi there, I am Victoria Harrison, a dedicated teacher, head of department, and freelance curriculum consultant.

Throughout 2025, I am embarking on an exciting 25 in 25 challenge in an attempt to raise £25,000 for Education Support, the only UK charity dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of teachers and education staff, by attempting to complete in 25 half marathons events over the next 12 months.

Why half marathons?

Basically, I rediscovered the joy of running whilst I trained for walking Offa's Dyke last year. As I increased my mileage, I was reminded of the meditative nature of running outdoors and the positive effect it had on my mental health.

Spending so much time in nature helped me to process things that I'd buried and never dealt with, despite counselling, CBT, and talking therapy. A diagnosis of mixed anxiety and depression disorder also helped.

Now that I'm teaching part-time, I have the time and mental capacity to do the things that I really enjoy and that give me purpose. In particular, long-distance walking or running, sustainability education, and art journaling.

Originally, as an excuse to run outside I had considered doing a marathon, but after completing the Tonbridge Half and loving it, I had the idea to do 25 halfs in 2025.

Why Education Support?

Education Support has been a lifeline for me, providing crucial mental health support through their helpline services on several occasions. Their work is vital in ensuring that educators receive the help they need to continue in the current recruitment and retention crisis. Ed Support's latest Teacher Wellbeing Index confirmed a rise in challenging parent and pupil behaviour amid unsustainable levels of stress and burnout in education staff.

Your donations will directly support Education Support's mission to improve the mental health and wellbeing of teachers and education staff across the UK.

Follow my journey, support my races, and help me reach my fundraising goal. Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of educators and the young people they work with.