On Monday 1st September, AKS was proud to serve as a community hub stop on the opening day of the Baton of Hope UK Tour 2025, a national movement dedicated to raising awareness of suicide prevention and support.
Our school’s involvement was made possible thanks to the organisation of our Nursery Manager, Vicky Reynolds, working in partnership with Lisa Greenwood from Blackpool Advocacy Hub (Empowerment Charity), who together enabled AKS Lytham to become a hub point on the tour.
A particularly moving moment came when the Baton was carried down our main school drive by Casey, a recent Year 13 Leaver and now alumna, who was inspired to join the campaign after attending an enrichment talk with Sixth Form at the Solace Centre.
The hub at AKS brought together local charities and support groups including Live Like Ralph, Lancashire Mind, Just Good Friends, Zumba Suzy, Streetwise Lancashire, AFC Fylde, Fylde Rugby Community Foundation and many more. Together, they highlighted vital services for mental health, wellbeing and community connection.
Special thanks go to Lexington Catering, who generously sponsored food for all the walkers and to our wonderful AKS catering team, whose hospitality provided a warm welcome for everyone involved.
From here, the Baton will continue across the UK, connecting communities, sparking conversations and encouraging open dialogue around suicide awareness.
We are deeply honoured that AKS Lytham played a role in this important national movement, standing alongside partners and local organisations to share a message of remembrance, hope and support.