Knight Frank Schools Triathlon: empowering the next generation through sport

Jim Sewell and Tessa Murray first met as volunteer teachers in Zimbabwe, supporting a charity that would later become Restless Development. “The whole ethos of Restless Development is empowering young people to be masters of their own destiny and giving them a voice,” says Tessa. “Young people need to be part of the solutions in the world, and their perspectives need to be heard.”

It was several years later, in 2015, that this shared belief helped spark the idea for the Knight Frank Schools Triathlon in support of the charity. “In the charity sector there’s often a focus on short-term funding,” says Jim. “We wanted to create an event that could support young people and raise money every year.”

Now a decade in, the premise is simple. Children form teams of four and fundraise ahead of race day, when each participant completes in a relay format - swimming, cycling and running - before crossing the finish line together. “For many children, sport can feel intimidating,” says Tessa. “This isn’t about individual times. It’s team-based, inclusive and focused on enjoyment.”

Now the UK’s largest sporting fundraising event for children, the Knight Frank Schools Triathlon has raised over £6 million for Restless Development and other charities chosen by participating schools, with 15 schools hosting events this year. “Long-term sponsorship is key,” says Tessa. “It allows us to plan confidently and keep operational costs low, so more of the money raised goes where it’s needed. Knight Frank’s support from the outset has been fundamental to that.”

Swimming for success

At Cheadle Hulme School near Manchester, participants will be cheered on by James Guy MBE, Olympic gold‑medallist swimmer and Knight Frank brand ambassador, who is supporting the Knight Frank Schools Triathlon.

James’ own journey to elite sport began locally, training with Trafford Metro Swimming Club before securing a scholarship to Millfield School. “As a kid I tried everything - football, martial arts, gymnastics,” he says. “Swimming was the one that really clicked.”

He’s keenly aware of the pressures placed on young athletes. “At a competitive level, I saw a lot of talented kids burn out because they were pushed too hard too early,” he says. “Looking back, the most important thing is enjoying what you do. The results come later. And if you don’t hit a personal best one time, you can always try again.”

Here, James, Tessa and Jim reflect on the transformative power of sport at a young age, and how the Knight Frank Schools Triathlon helps children build confidence while making a difference.

Q: Why is sport important for young people?

Tessa: The sense of achievement is hugely powerful. In the triathlon, children can see their progress - whether that’s swimming a little faster, cycling for longer, or reaching their fundraising target. Doing that alongside teammates, friends and family makes it even more meaningful.

Jim: Children today are growing up in a world that can be quite insular - many are the first generation immersed in smartphones and social media from a young age. Sport and fundraising are outward-looking and community-based, which is incredibly positive for mental health.

James: There are so many benefits. It keeps you active, gets you out of the house and - most importantly - it’s fun. One of the greatest things sport has given me is community. Some of the friends I made through swimming are still my closest friends today.

Q: How do you build a strong foundation in sport and fitness for adulthood?

Tessa: The disciplines in a triathlon are the activities many people rely on to stay fit throughout their lives. Helping children enjoy those sports early on is a great foundation for long‑term health.

Jim: The key is helping children find something they can get excited about. We’re always amazed during school assemblies - at first, there are pupils who can’t swim 50 metres or ride a bike. Then they sign up for the triathlon, and suddenly the swimming club has 100 members. It’s transformational.

James: Being part of a group with a shared goal is hugely motivating. Swimming can be a tricky sport because it’s both individual and team-based. At Manchester Aquatics Centre there’s a popular triathlon group every Saturday. I also see the Trafford Masters group training near me - they range anywhere from 30 to 70 years old, balancing full-time jobs with training because they enjoy it.

Q: What advice would you give children on race day?

Tessa: If it’s your first time, you’re in for a real treat. It’s an incredibly joyful day with huge support. Try to put your nerves aside - you’ll feel proud of what you’ve achieved when you cross the line.

Jim: There might be lots of questions on the day, but there are plenty of volunteers to help. Focus on enjoying the experience and don’t worry about times.

James: Go in knowing it’s okay if things aren’t perfect. Learn about the sport - you have the rest of your life to get faster. Nerves can be a good thing; use them for energy and excitement. Stick with your teammates, support one another and do your very best together. 

Q: What do you hope participants take away?

James: I hope it opens their eyes to new sports. When I was their age, I didn’t even know what a triathlon was. Trying different things, finding what you enjoy and working as a team - that can stay with you for life.

Tessa: It’s a wonderful early lesson that you’re never too young to make a positive impact. Children realise they can use their own opportunities to help others.

Jim: Ideally, they’ll remember a great day, maybe conquering a few fears, and knowing they helped people less fortunate than themselves. If that happens, then we’ve achieved what we set out to do.

To continue to grow the event, while ensuring the money the children raises goes directly to charity, Jim and Tessa always need more volunteers. Please contact jim@restlessdevelopment.org if you would like to help.