Race on to inspire pupils

Ceri Stephens, head of vocational studies at Ysgol Gyfun Rhydywaun in Penywaun is running this year's London Marathon to help families who need extra support. Here he explains why he is running to raise money for Siop Sian, which sells uniforms, exercise kit, coats, stationery, equipment and to help fund the school's free breakfast club

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AS a teacher at Ysgol Gyfun Rhydywaun - a Welsh-medium secondary school in the Cynon Valley - I see first hand the challenges many of my pupils face.

This is why I'm running the TCS London Marathon as part of Team TCS Teachers, not just for personal achievement, but to inspire them and raise vital funds for a cause close to our hearts: Siop Sian.

I’ve entered the ballot for many years to no avail, and this year I was lucky enough to get a place thanks to Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).

I’m aiming for a time of four hours 30 minutes, but the most important thing is that I finish the race and motivate my students.

Running has been a constant in my life for 20 years.

It's my therapy, my stress reliever, and my way of putting the world right in my mind.

It keeps me physically active and mentally prepared for the demands of teaching and raising my two young children.

The inclusivity of running events has always resonated with me.