Local teacher and CCCU Alum, Darren Collins (BA/BSc (Hons) Sport And Exercise Science With Art, 1999 and PGCE Post Compulsory (Sport, Leisure & Tourism), 2000), is testing his mettle by taking on Ironman Copenhagen for charity.

The Challenge of a Lifetime

Darren Collins, 48, who grew up in Stratford and trained to be a PE teacher at CCCU, has enjoyed an expansive teaching career across Folkestone, Maidstone, Harrow, Barking, and Sittingbourne, inspiring the next generation. 

Now specialising in financial literacy, he’s pushing himself even further – braving Ironman Copenhagen in August 2025 in support of MyBnk. His goal: to raise £5,000 to help young people gain essential money management skills. 

The Ironman is a gruelling, long-distance triathlon that pushes competitors to their limits. The challenge begins with a 3.8 km swim, followed by a 180 km cycle, and concludes with a full marathon (42.2 km). Completing it requires months of dedicated training, mental preparation and unwavering commitment.  

While teaching business and finance studies in Sittingbourne, Darren saw first-hand how financial literacy could benefit all students, regardless of ability. This inspired him to train as an Independent Financial & Mortgage Advisor and advocate for better financial education.  

A supporter of MyBnk since 2022, Darren is passionate about helping young people develop vital money management skills: 

“I was looking for a financial education charity that truly aligned with my values, one that could help push the message of better financial literacy in the UK. This cause is personal to me, as I felt a lack of financial education affected my confidence as a teenager and into early adulthood. “ 

Darren adds: “I believe that better financial education delivered in a relevant and engaging way can not only help young people become more independent but also create a stronger, more financially capable UK.” 

MyBnk delivers expert-led financial education in person and online, covering key life skills such as budgeting, debt management, saving and student finances. Working with more than 50,000 young people and adults across the UK every year, their sessions are designed to make learning interactive and impactful, equipping young people and adults with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to manage their money. 

Currently exploring an international teaching venture in Cairo, Darren will train in Egypt’s extreme heat before returning to Canterbury and London in the summer to prepare for the Ironman race day in Denmark.  

As a full-time teacher, Darren balances an intense training schedule alongside his work commitments. With outdoor training limited in Cairo due to safety concerns, his preparation currently takes place indoors, with treadmill runs, stationary bike sessions, and swimming in an Olympic pool. He will transition to outdoor training in the UK from June to fully prepare for race day: 

“Training for an Ironman is tough but every time I push through another session, I remind myself why I’m doing this. Financial education is life changing. The work MyBnk does in schools, youth clubs, and even prisons ensures that young people, regardless of background, have access to critical financial skills many of us never had growing up. 

I’ll do whatever it takes to cross that line. It means everything not just to me, but to the thousands of young people who benefit from MyBnk’s programmes.” 

Darren will take on Ironman Copenhagen on 17 August 2025. Consider spreading the word and sponsoring Darren by donating to his Enthuse page.