WIRRAL students have completed a series of endurance challenges to help fund the refurbishment of a primary school in Afghanistan.

In what was described on Calday Grange Grammar School's website as "an extraordinary display of determination and solidarity", the students of 8HS completed their ambitious ‘Road to Nangarhar’ challenge in support of the work at Koz Agam Primary School.

The ‘Road to Nangarhar’ challenge has been linked to humanitarian charity the Halo Trust’s efforts in the region, where they work tirelessly to defuse landmines and IEDs left behind after years of conflict.

As part of the challenge, students climbed on the school’s climbing wall. Other endurance events included swimming and walking.

Located close to the Pakistan border in the east of Afghanistan, the school sits on top of a remote hill overlooking a green valley.

Amongst the chaos and fighting of the past five years, doors were ripped from the hinges and furniture looted from the school, which despite the damage, remains the centre of education for 1,200 boys and girls, who live in the district of Pachir Wa Agam.

The region saw heavy fighting from 2017 to 2021, which has resulted in heavy damage to the school's infrastructure. Following the end of fighting in the region, the school reopened immediately and HALO's teams cleared mines from within 200m of the school to make sure children could walk to school without risking their lives every morning and afternoon.

The funds raised by the students are being directed to the ‘Just Giving’ page set up by the Trust, contributing significantly to making the region safer for the local community.

A noteworthy aspect of this campaign has been the involvement of Oliver Thomson, an alumnus from the class of 2014. Currently working with the Halo Trust in Afghanistan, Oliver has been described as "an inspiration to the students, sharing his experiences in defusing landmines and the risks children in these areas face daily just to attend school".

A statement on Calday Grange Grammar School's website read: "Nangarhar, the Afghan region where the Koz Agam Primary School is located, has been a focal point of the students’ efforts.

"Their dedication to the cause has not only raised substantial funds but also heightened awareness of the difficulties faced by children in conflict-affected areas.

"The school extends its gratitude to the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) staff and Mr. Holmes, who played a pivotal role in facilitating the climb. Their support has been crucial in the successful execution of this event.

"The ‘Road to Nangarhar’ challenge is a testament to the spirit of community and empathy at Calday.

"The school community congratulates the boys of 8HS for their remarkable achievement and thanks everyone involved for their commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need".

To contribute to the cause, visit the ‘Just Giving’ page set up by the Halo Trust https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/halokozagam