The Kirklees College community came together to help the Sport and Public & Uniformed Service departments honour the passing of their friend and colleague Sarah Heathcote. Sadly, Sarah recently lost her battle to cancer. Sarah was an inspirational tutor who was dedicated to her job and loved by students and staff.
Through a cake stall, raffle draw, tuck shop and football tournament, a total of £710 was raised and donated to the palliative care unit at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.
The football event on Friday 16 December was a huge success and eight teams battled the cold conditions to show their support. Sarah’s family were in attendance and were overwhelmed with the support.
The staff team were triumphant in victory and were presented the Sarah Heathcote trophy by sport alumni Connor Kavanagh. Connor said the following touching words before presenting the award:
“When I started college I was unsure of what I wanted to do. I was contemplating joining the army and even completed the selection course because I thought education was not for me.
I started at Kirklees on a Level 1 sport course, and left having completed a Level 3. I was against going to university but Sarah kept on at me to apply, she saw my potential and gave me the confidence and encouragement to apply.
I went on to complete a masters and now I have my own sport therapy business, as well as working as a physiotherapist in non-league football. If it wasn’t for Sarah’s belief I may have never taken this career path. I will be forever grateful for her guidance.”
The celebrations were a fitting tribute to Sarah’s 15 years of tutoring at the college.
The Sport and Public & Uniformed Services team wish to pass on their gratitude by saying thank you to everyone involved, from prize contributors and volunteers, to all the cake bakers and kind donators.