A daredevil secondary school headteacher is taking on the challenge of skydiving from 10,000ft to raise money for a new state-of-the-art support facility for pupils.

Daniel Owen, Llanidloes High School headteacher, is fundraising for a new Pupil Support ‘Cymorth’ Centre and an extension of the school’s Autistic Spectrum Centre by conquering his fear of heights and jumping out of a plane on Saturday, March 2.

“It is no secret that finances are exceptionally tight in Powys schools,” Mr Owen said.

“We appreciate that our colleagues at the local authority are stuck between a rock and a hard place when it comes to balancing the budget. So we’re doing whatever is needed to ensure our pupils continue to flourish and thrive.”

The proposals include an expansion new suite of rooms such as a kitchen, classroom, social room and a garden to help pupils who find school life troublesome or difficult gain confidence with social and life skills as well as qualifications.

Lorna Morris, vice-chair of the Friends of Llanidloes High School, says the £40,000 project will be “absolutely amazing” for the most vulnerable learners and those with specific learning needs who are a “very important part of the school’s community”.

“We have such a large fundraising target we knew it had to be something big to get us kick started. When we suggested to Mr Owen that he throw himself out of a plane we didn’t really think he would say yes but we have been amazed by his commitment to the school,” Ms Morris said.

“We also can’t thank Potters Group and Llanidloes Doctors enough for sponsoring the jump fees enabling us to make sure 100 per cent of money raised goes towards the new unit.”

Margot Jones, Chair of Governors at Llanidloes High School, said: "We refuse to stand still. We have an inspirational vision to create state-of-the-art support facilities that cater for pupils most in need of literacy, numeracy, digital, social and emotional support in a nurturing learning environment.The Governing Body and our wonderful team of staff are determined improve the school still further for the sake of the children entrusted to our care."

Mr Owen added: “I’m not sure whether I’m more nervous about the jump or exceeding the maximum weight at the weigh in.

“I’m hoping the prospect of creating a much-needed new Support Centre for our marvellous pupils will carry me through an afternoon of unbridled, joyless terror, plunging towards the earth at 125mph.”

If you would like to make a donation click here