Wakefield school welcomes GB athlete

Jenny has been Ranked 5th in world for Badminton and has won many accolades including a silver medal in the mixed doubles in the Commonwealth Games in 2010.

The day was organised by Mr Edwards (PE co-ordinator), alongside the Sports for School organisation who run athlete-led physical activity events to inspire children, raise money for PE equipment in schools (over £2.5m to date), and support GB and Irish Olympic, Paralympic and Invictus athletes financially.

The school was alive with energy, noise, smiling, happy faces and a sense of achievement as the children worked together through a sponsored fitness circuit, led by Jenny Wallwork herself. Pupils completed a range of exercises from spotty dogs, to press ups, star jumps to leg drives, while basking in the wonderful sunshine that we have been lucky enough to experience over the past few weeks.

Upon completion of the fitness activities, pupils gathered in the school hall for an assembly, where they could rest and listen to Jenny speak about her individual sporting experiences, the lessons that she has learned in life, and gave a spectacular demonstration of her badminton skills. The aim of the event was to inspire the pupils to take up sport, but just as importantly to encourage them to discover and then pursue their passion in life.

Mr Edwards has said about the day,

‘Since participating in this event, there has been a real buzz around school, with both pupils and teachers alike, feeling inspired to participate within further physical activity opportunities. Pupils were amazed and awe struck at the opportunity to meet such a talented sports woman in Jenny Wallwork, someone who has represented our country at major international events. We have a large number of pupils who have now stated that they would like to follow in Jenny’s footsteps and represent our country on an international level. It has been an inspiring experience for all. I would like to thank everyone involved who helped to make this day possible, and send best wishes on behalf of Snapethorpe Primary School and myself to the athletes that our sponsorship money will aid. Thank you!’