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"Sasha Burrell Sports Hall -in recognition of an inspirational student"

Year 9 student Sasha Burrell suffered from sepsis in 2016, which resulted in her having both her legs amputated below the knee.

Sasha had previously attended Vaughan Primary School, West Harrow, between 2008 to 2015.  She was awarded the school trophy for her effort in sports, and was a member of the girls' football team and took part in cross country competitions. She also joined an inline skating club with Harrow Leisure. 

On Monday 9th July, a very special occasion took place at a conference at Vaughan Primary School, when Sasha spoke about her inspirational journey to a group of headteachers, governors and PE leaders. The Local Authority Physical Education conference was to promote "Healthy mind - healthy body", and both PE teacher Miss Welford and Sasha spoke about the importance of PE and Sport in their lives and the positive impact on children.

Just like St Clement Danes, Vaughan Primary School is also extremely proud of Sasha, and the school have named their new school sports hall  'The Sasha Burrell Sports Hall', in her honour. The plaque reads: "Sasha Burrell Sports Hall - in recognition of an inspirational student".

Sasha also attended another special occasion recently when she was a guest on the ITV programme 'Lorraine', and was interviewed by host Lorraine Kelly. This follows the TV drama 'Coronation Street' running a story line about a young boy who contracted sepsis following a fall whilst playing football. Sasha has attended the Coronation Street set as an advisor regarding this storyline. If you wish to see Lorraine's interview with Sasha please scroll to the end of this page to follow the link:

Sasha spoke about her journey since sepsis at the PE conference and said, ' I was really pleased to move from the wheelchair to prosthetics and walk again.  At the end of year 7 we went to Bude for our PGL and I tried everything including kayaking, abseiling, cycling, rock climbing, and I loved it. Sports got a lot easier when I got my blades.  After school I like to cycle, go for a walk or swim. St Clement Danes School has managed to link in to the 'specialised' Duke of Edinburgh Award expeditions, so I will be doing the Bronze Award on my bike along the flat Lee Valley, staying in a hostel, and the Silver Award in a kayak with a friend.

I can't imagine my life without being active.  Having no feet has not stopped me from doing sports and trying new things. Being active make me feel good.'

Thanks go to Mr Griffin,Headteacher of Vaughan Primary School, and Mrs Claire Burrell, who kindly provided information regarding this very special event.

https://www.itv.com/lorraine/hot-topics/the-14-year-old-sepsis-survivor-who-helped-corrie-with-their-latest-storyline

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19th December

Charities Week 2025

The halls of St Clement Danes School have been buzzing with holiday cheer this week as the annual Charities Week is officially in full swing. As the Autumn Term draws to a close, pupils and staff have united to raise vital funds for three incredible causes: Endometriosis UK, Spread a Smile, and Herts Young Homeless. The school is alive with the spirit of giving, driven by a jam packed ‘Advent’ schedule designed to get everyone involved in the fundraising efforts. This year’s itinerary has been filled with exciting activities, ranging from pupil led lessons and a "Mystery Bucket" challenge to the competitive excitement of the "Elf Auction" and various competitions. Pupils have also enjoyed the classic "Sponge the Teacher" event and a visit to Santa’s Grotto, ensuring the festive atmosphere is matched only by the community’s generosity. Beyond the classroom activities, pupils have been sharing the festive spirit with the wider community. On 18th December, the SCD Senior Choir paid a special visit to Chorleywood Manor Care Home. The residents were treated to a beautiful selection of Christmas carols, featuring performances by members of the Chamber Choir, Evensong Choir, and the Barbershop Choir. Year 12 pupils Immy and Chrissie noted that "it was a very joyful occasion and it was lovely to see the residents joining in and looking so happy." The success of such a busy week relies heavily on pupil leadership, and the school extends a massive vote of thanks to Year 13 for their incredible hard work and dedication. Their enthusiasm have been the driving force behind this week's fundraising efforts. The week is set to conclude on Friday with the Grand Finale: the highly anticipated Sixth Form Revue, promising a spectacular end to a week of community, charity and celebration.