Education
Published: January 23, 2025 | Updated: 23rd January 2025
Havant Academy has taken delivery of a new minibus thanks to a donation from The Ridge Foundation, founded by tech entrepreneur and former pupil Darren Ridge.
Darren presented the £50,000 bus to pupils just before Christmas.
The foundation, which aims to help children from challenging backgrounds reach their full potential, previously donated £330,000 worth of Vodafone data connectivity to the academy to improve students’ access to online learning tools.
It’s also funded a new technology hub for pupils who struggle with classroom learning; computers and projector equipment; the academy’s awards schemes and prom; and organised a sponsored bike ride to raise over £30,000 for a new multi-sensory space.
“We’re delighted to have reached this milestone and to be able to support staff and pupils at Havant Academy in the challenges they face every day in helping young people learn, thrive and reach their potential,” said Darren.
“The Ridge Foundation will continue to support the school throughout 2025, and we look forward to continuing to make a meaningful difference to young people – and to achieving extraordinary things together.”
Headteacher Vicki Dillon-Thiselton added: “The support of Darren and The Ridge Foundation has been phenomenal, especially when it comes to supporting young people with social, emotional and mental health concerns.
“Both the bus and the data connectivity will open up new opportunities for Havant Academy students and set us off on a great start as we look forward to 2025.”
Darren was a pupil at the academy when it was known as Wakeford Comprehensive School before going on to found business communications specialist Onecom.
He and co-founder Aaron Brown’s company Ridown invest in tech businesses, including broadband provider Onestream and device recycling firm WeBuyAnyPhone.
They also recently backed 19-year-old entrepreneurs Ben O’Nion and Charlie Gray and their smart notetaking assistant Echo AI.
