Wonder Walk 2026: Biggest Year Yet

On Sunday 7th June, 280 walkers stepped out for Chickenshed's third annual Wonder Walk - and made it the biggest, most joyful one yet.

From first-timers to long-time members, from families with pushchairs to participants completing the full 10k, the day brought together everyone who makes Chickenshed the community it is. There was entertainment from our students, the Tales from the Shed team and the youth band, sunshine (mostly), and no shortage of yellow t-shirts.

Together, walkers raised over £14,000 in vital funds to support our work with young people. And somehow, every year, it gets better.

Almost 300 people turned up, collected their goody bags - packed with snacks, treats and a yellow t-shirt - and got ready to walk. The car park was already full of noise before anyone had taken a step.

This year we were joined by actress Diane Parish, who officially opened the Wonder Walk and sent everyone on their way. Before that, Chickenshed students led the warm-up - which is exactly as chaotic and brilliant as it sounds. The Tales Team were out on the route all morning, making sure nobody was short of a smile.

Scroll through the photos below. There are some good ones.

Walkers of all ages and abilities headed out on their chosen routes - 5k or 10k - following the Tales Trail along the way. Students were out on the 10k route keeping energy up, which by all accounts they did very well.

The rain held off. (We were relieved too.)

At the finish line, everyone got a medal - a proper one - along with a free drink and wood-fired pizza. People left messages on the Wonder Wall, took photos at the Glitter Wall, and did what Chickenshed people always do: connected with friends, old and new.

Kaya James (12) was the first to return from the 5K route (left picture) and Jake Jijo (11), Arvan Chumun (12) Oliver Taylor (11) were the first to return from the 10K route (right picture), congratulations to all!

Wonder Walk 2026 would not have been possible without the incredible support of our Dream Team. 

A huge thank you goes to our 40 dedicated volunteers and talented students whose enthusiasm, energy and commitment contributed hugely to making the event such a success.

Our volunteers played a vital role throughout the day, welcoming participants, supporting activities on-site and serving as route marshals to ensure everyone could enjoy the walk safely.

Special thanks to everyone who walked, volunteered, fundraised and supported the event. Together, you helped make Wonder Walk 2026 a truly brilliant day.
 

To date the above has been raised towards our Young Company Support Initiative where we offer subsidised places to help families who may struggle with programme costs. 

Support ranges from 25% to 100% of fees, depending on individual circumstances, and is available to all Young Company members to ensure financial hardship doesn’t prevent participation.