Derwen College is inviting runners to apply for two charity places in the 2027 TCS London Marathon on Sunday 25 April 2027 – a chance to take on the iconic 26.2-mile challenge, soak up the incredible atmosphere, and raise vital funds to support young adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) at Derwen College.
Derwen College has two charity places available for 2027, and would love to hear from anyone who’s been inspired by this year’s amazing event. The deadline to apply is midnight on Sunday 10 May.
To apply, you will be asked to make a £5 donation to Derwen Charity and complete the application form at derwen.me/London2027. Successful applicants will need to raise £2,000 for Derwen College. Fundraising must be led by the individual runner, with support from the College fundraising and marketing team.
Applications are open now. The two successful applicants will be announced week commencing Monday 11 May.
The announcement follows an exciting milestone for the College, which saw its first charity runners Dan Jones and Connor Barker taking on the 2026 London Marathon for Derwen Charity at the weekend.
Connor ran in memory of his dad, who was due to run the London Marathon in 2015 but sadly died a couple of weeks before race day. He was also inspired by his younger sister Amy, who is a student at Derwen College.
Dan, who is Sports and Enrichment Coordinator at Derwen College, was motivated to improve his own health and wellbeing, set goals, raise awareness and be a role model to Derwen College students.
Dan Jones said: “What an experience – and what a challenge. A year ago I hadn’t run more than 10k, so building up to a marathon felt huge.
“Thank you to everyone who supported me, from my colleagues at College who helped with training, to everyone who sponsored me and came along to our charity quiz.
“I’d recommend it to anyone – there’s nothing like the atmosphere and the exhilaration on the day. And to have raised money for a cause that means so much to me really was the cherry on the cake. I’m hurting now, but it was worth it!”
Connor Barker said : “My younger sister, Amy, attends Derwen College, which has helped her to grow into an independent young lady. With the help of all the wonderful staff and amenities, she is able to express her passions for life, build relationships, and have the most exciting experiences during her young adult life. I’m also really grateful to everyone who sponsored and supported me.”
Bryony Wesson, Derwen Charity fundraiser, said: “A huge thank you to Dan and Connor for all their hard work – the training, the long runs in all weathers, and the incredible fundraising – they’ve been brilliant ambassadors for Derwen College. We can’t wait to welcome two new runners for 2027 and follow their journeys from the first training run right through to the finish line on marathon day.”
To apply for a Derwen Charity place in the 2027 TCS London Marathon, visit derwen.me/London2027 before midnight on Sunday 10 May.
