A TEACHER at UTC Warrington is inspiring his students by taking on Mount Kilimanjaro, as he raises awareness od male suicides.

Joe Varey, assistant principal at UTC Warrington on Dallam Lane, will be climbing the mountain in Tanzania during the October half term with Andy’s Man Club who aim to reduce the rate in male suicides in under 45s.

UTC Warrington has been inspiring students to challenge themselves through their college personal development programme. Youngsters are encouraged to develop their teamwork and resilience skills in all aspects of their time at the UTC.

Joe has been taking on weekly challenges, including 10km runs, tough mudder trials and warrior courses, in preparation for his Kilimanjaro challenge.

He said: “I have wanted to inspire our students to take on extraordinary challenges that will test their resilience and personal qualities.

"Climbing Kilimanjaro is something I never expected to do but the challenge seems like the next step in my support for Andy's Man Club.”

The club was set up following the death of Andy Roberts who died aged 23 and encourages members to speak openly about their problems without judgement.

When one of Joe’s close friends took his own life 18 months ago, he found support from Andy's Man Club and has since gone on to raise money and awareness for the group.

Joe said: “The students have given me a lot of motivation following the death of John and to know I am inspiring those students to be open and celebrate themselves is very satisfying.

“Kilimanjaro will be an immense test of fitness, teamwork, and resilience – the same skills I push my students to demonstrate every day. I can’t wait to come back to the college after half term and share my story with the UTC and to support others in challenging themselves.”

Joe has already surpassed his target of raising £500 for the charity.

Donations are still being accepted at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/joe-varey-1?utm_id=60&utm_term=7wDAY2xRb