We had a flipping great time in the annual Launchpad charity Pancake Race on Tuesday. 

It was so egg-citing watching The Abbey Team flying along Broad Street in their fancy dress, taking on 25 other teams from Reading. The annual relay race is a fantastic community event, all to raise money to support the homeless in our area. 

Headteacher Mr le Fleming, Head of Philosophy & Theology Mrs Jest and Upper VI students Grace and Harriet formed The Abbey dream team. We’re relieved to say that none of them cracked under the pressure of being watched by ‘flip monitors’ and all managed the required 3 flips of the pancake per leg!

Egged on by cheering crowds of spectators the team did amazingly well, making it through two rounds to the semi finals, only to be beaten by the team that went on to win overall! 

As well as wearing ‘Abbey capes’ the team were dressed as playing cards. Their tabards were kindly loaned by the Junior School and soon to be featured in their brilliant upcoming production of Alice in Wonderland.

Harriet says “I had the best time at the Launchpad pancake race! I really enjoyed the opportunity to meet businesses and community groups from the local Reading area, as well as take part in the race. My favourite memory from the day was Mr le Fleming’s superhero pose while running to the finish line!”

Both Harriet and Grace featured on BBC Radio Berkshire sharing how exhilarating the race was and their flipping strategies. As well as coming home semi-finalists, The Abbey School was also proudly awarded ‘Top Fundraiser’ by the Mayor of Reading. 

Launchpad’s Pancake Race is legendary in Reading and it was brilliant to see The Abbey School as part of its 28th year.