March 16, 2021

Duckett’s Beard Raises £900 for Launchpad

After over a year of facial hair growth, on Monday 15th March, Richard Duckett, Head of Politics & Global Perspectives & History Teacher, bade farewell to his high-priced and prized beard.

Over the course of the Spring Term, students, staff and parents have enjoyed being entertained by Richard’s original and wacky beard styling which has raised a phenomenal £900 for Launchpad, Reading’s leading homelessness prevention charity.

After pledging to bravely take on the community’s most popular stubble styling demands, Richard has taken on the guises of Santa, pirate, Viking, wizard, rainbow, bearded lady, Forest Gump and Chuck from Cast Away. A Year 9 parent commented “We’ve really enjoyed your photos and your enthusiasm for this valuable cause.”

Speaking to BBC Radio Berkshire about the initiative in early February, Richard reflected on the agreement he made with his 2019-20 Year 7 class to not shave until they returned to the Park under normal circumstances, after going into lockdown.

Invited back later in the month to discuss the progress of his fundraiser, Richard then became a member of The British Beard Club, as he discussed best beard practices with President, David Dade, on air. Richard was delighted to have his membership fee wavered in order to be donated to Launchpad.

Launchpad commented, “Thank you to Richard for taking on one of the most creative fundraising challenges we have seen to date. It’s certainly given us lots of entertainment. The money raised will make a huge difference to vulnerable people in Reading.”

Richard enthused “Thanks to everyone who have supported this fundraiser by donating, but also a massive thank you to everyone for all their hard work behind the scenes, without whom it would not have been possible. I did the beard; the rest was down to team LP.”

Assistant Head, Partnerships and Outreach, Natasha Coccia, commented, “Always willing to give up his time for the greater good, we couldn’t have asked for a more open, fun and committed fundraiser. Keen to get the students involved – he has even let them dictate what happens next to his facial hair, just to make a difference. What a legend!”

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