The Willink School to honour beloved maths teacher who died

Abdullah Nurbha, Robert Furey and Luke Irons are taking on the 13.1-mile challenge in tribute to Mr Nev John, who taught at The Willink School for 27 years.

The students are raising money for cancer research and have already collected £1,400 towards their £1,500 target.

Mr John was remembered by his students as a passionate and selfless teacher who continued supporting his classes while undergoing treatment.

Abdullah told the Reading Chronicle: “Having a teacher who is truly passionate really makes the difference. Mr John was a teacher just like that.

“Every day he came in with the biggest smile on his face, ready to take us along the adventures of maths.

“It was something he was really passionate about and reflected onto all his students.

“Sadly, at the beginning of the year, our beloved Mr John passed away.

Teachers have helped the three students train for the half marathon (Image: Supplied)

“We were extremely lucky to be taught by him and he really changed my perspective on how I see ‘beautiful maths’.”

The phrase “beautiful maths” became closely associated with Mr John among his students, who said his enthusiasm for the subject was contagious.

On the fundraising page, Abdullah described his former teacher as a “bright, bubbly, and completely selfless person” who brought joy into the classroom.

He said that even while undergoing difficult treatment, Mr John continued arriving at lessons with a smile and worked tirelessly to support his pupils.

The students decided to take on the half marathon both to remember their teacher and raise money which they hope will contribute towards better cancer treatments and cures.

The maths building at The Willink School has been named after Nev John (Image: Supplied)

Abdullah added: “Due to his commitment to The Willink School for 27 years helping so many students, myself, Robert Furey and Luke Irons are going to be tackling a half marathon in the remembrance of our beloved maths teacher.

“We will be fundraising money for cancer research in the name of Mr John.

“We urge you to donate to help us fulfil the legacy of Mr John, no matter how big or small. Every little helps.”

The students also thanked everyone who has helped them get close to their £1,500 target.

Abdullah said the support from their friends, families and teachers, including those who have trained alongside them, had been “boundless”.

The trio of students will run their half marathon on November 15th.