The Annual School Of Hard Knocks (SOHK) Long Lunch has shattered records, raising an unprecedented £161,000 in a single afternoon to support young people facing significant life challenges. 

This milestone ensures that more boys and girls across the U.K. who are struggling in their education will gain access to SOHK’s transformational sports and mentoring programme, helping to build confidence, resilience, and brighter futures.

Held at M Restaurant, Threadneedle Street, this year’s event united the City’s most influential figures, with leading firms including Investec, Firethorn Trust, Clarksons, and Falko shoulder-to-shoulder with international sports stars Andrew Gomarsall MBE and Ollie Phillips, and media figures Lawson Muncaster and LBC’s Nick Ferrari.

SOHK & Supporters at Record-Breaking Long Lunch (L-R) Leon Lloyd, Martin Williams, Lawson Muncaster, SOHK Founder & CEO Ken Cowen, Andrew Gomarsall MBE

The buzzing atmosphere was matched by Jonny Gould’s high-energy auction and prize draw, all helping to drive the record-breaking total. Guests heard powerful first-hand stories from two inspiring teens at Bacon’s College, London, who bravely shared how SOHK has changed their lives.

Jim Cameron, SOHK Chair and Partner at Milbank LLP, commented:

“Thanks to all who organised and attended this great fun event, we raised a record amount which will go to improving the lives of hundreds of young people.

“All of us at School Of Hard Knocks are delighted and proud to have hosted such a successful occasion and to be part of such an amazing charity.”

Changing lives

The funds raised will provide more young people with a full year of SOHK’s Schools Programme, which combines rugby-based physical challenges with expert mentoring to help participants overcome barriers and unlock their potential.

Ken Cowen, CEO and Founder of SOHK, who founded the charity in 2012, commented:

“Raising £161,000 in one afternoon is phenomenal. This support means we can sustain and expand our mission. The stories shared by the two students on the day were just incredible and I hope gave fresh insight into the sort of transformative work we are all about. We are deeply grateful to our supporters, corporate partners, and the team at M Restaurant for making this our biggest Long Lunch yet.”

Chris Webb, Founding Partner of Firethorn Trust said: “The SOHK Long Lunch is always a highlight of the January diary. It’s an opportunity to see what the charity does and meet and hear from young people whose lives are being changed by SOHK. To be able to contribute to their efforts in a small way is a privilege.”

Sport for Social Change

SOHK’s innovative approach - using sport to drive personal growth and resilience - has delivered proven impact, with:

• 90% of participants report increased confidence
• 91% feel more engaged in school
• 89% feel more hopeful about their future.

With the need for SOHK’s programmes higher than ever, as more young people face exclusion from school, the challenge continues. To support the cause or find out more, visit: schoolofhardknocks.org.uk/donate