Rainford High raise money in memory of much-loved senior learning assistant

Staff from Rainford High in St Helens recently took part in the Mersey Tunnel 10k Run in memory of Helen Quinn, a senior learning assistant who passed away last year.

35 members of staff from across the school, including teachers, support staff, office staff as well as the principal, put on their running shoes in a bid to raise money for MacMillan Cancer Support.

The school has raised vital funds for the cause for many years, however, it is more pertinent than ever after Helen sadly lost her battle with acute myeloid leukaemia in July 2022.

Over the 16 years that Helen worked at the school she helped many children reach their full potential and supported them in breaking down any barriers they faced.

She was also pivotal in helping the school raise money for charities, both big and small. Staff and students will continue these fundraising efforts in her legacy.

Between the Mersey Tunnel 10k run and last year’s Macmillan Coffee Morning, Rainford High has raised over £3600 for the charity.

The run started in Vauxhall and saw participants enter the Kingsway Tunnel and finish in New Brighton. The runners were cheered on by Helen’s daughter, Carly, which spurred them on even more.

Miss Jo Burgess, assistant principal and SENDCO, helped coordinate the fundraising. She said: “Helen was kind, caring, fun-loving, compassionate and always up for a laugh – nothing was ever too much for this amazing lady.

“We are determined to continue fundraising for Macmillan in Helen’s name and help so many others with their fight against cancer.”

Principal of Rainford High, Mr Ian Young, commented: “I am extremely proud of the team coming together to run in memory of Helen.

“She was absolutely adored by students, families and staff. Helen always put everyone else first and nothing was ever too much for her. As a school, we will continue to honour Helen in everything that we do.”