THE HEART OF THE MATTER
An EPQ Artefact – Cardiomyopathy UK: A Fundraising Gala. A black-tie gala in aid of the charity Cardiomyopathy UK
Warminster Sixth Formers are well known for their generous actions and deeds when it comes to offering a helping hand, giving up their time, raising awareness and much needed funds for charities or organisations close to their heart. Deputy Head Boy, Jamie Holmes, is no exception and is raising awareness for Cardiomyopathy using his Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and is encouraging the whole Warminster community to get involved.
Jamie explained why he is taking the EPQ, “When deciding to take the EPQ, I always had in the back of my mind the idea of doing an artefact and organising a fundraising event for a charity that means so much to me. My dad passed away suddenly and unexpectedly due to Cardiomyopathy when I was only three years old so to host this event in aid of this amazing charity and in his honour is an incredible opportunity for me and my family.”
Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle: ‘cardio’ means heart, ‘myo’ means muscle and ‘pathy’ means disease. It isn’t a single condition, but a group of conditions that affect the structure of the heart and reduce its ability to pump blood around the body. Around 1 in 250 people in the UK are affected.
Jamie continued, “As a genetic carrier of cardiomyopathy this was another reason that prompted me to organise this fundraising event. The support we have received from the charity has been amazing with the money raised from the charity being used to raise awareness so that more people know the signs and symptoms as well as promoting and shaping research to advance the development of new treatments and cures for cardiomyopathy. Those working at Cardiomyopathy UK do an amazing job and I’ve been in contact with them many times about my event, which they’re so supporting of.”
Susie Parrack, English Teacher and Deputy Head of Ken, commented “The Extended Project Qualification is a qualification which Warminster pupils are encouraged to take. It’s equivalent of half an A Level, promotes independent learning and involves investigating a topic of choice in depth. It’s usually a substantial piece of work and can be in the form of a dissertation, extensive investigation, performance, or event. It’s no surprise that Jamie has decided to use his EPQ for good. If I had to sum up in two words, the definition of a Warminster pupil it would simply be: Jamie Holmes. I have known Jamie since Year 7 and he was in my tutor group for three years. Jamie is indefatigable, enthusiastic, kind, honest, loyal, positive, courteous, compassionate, patient, mischievous (!), empathetic, good-humoured, resilient, and luminous. It has been an honour and a privilege to have been a part of Jamie’s journey through the School and I am delighted to support his event.”
Jamie concluded, “I have received the most amazing support from everyone at Warminster and it’s been a great driving force. We are hoping to fill the Thomas Arnold Hall and everyone is welcome to join in and support.”
The event takes place at Warminster School on Saturday 16 September. There are ONLY 100 tickets available, with some tables already reserved. Please contact Jamie for tickets, information regarding sponsorship, donations or if you would like to assist, please contact: [email protected]
To make donations/payments in aid of the event and charity please use the link ‘Go Fund Me’