Team GB sprinter Gareth Hopkins was a guest at St John’s C of E First School in Wimborne where he put the pupils through their paces. Gareth runs with year 2 pupils.
Team GB sprinter Gareth Hopkins put Wimborne school children through their paces as part of an Olympics-inspired event.
With Rio 2016 just around the corner, Gareth was invited to St John’s First School to talk to the children about his journey in athletics and to inspire them into pursuing their own passions.
The 100m and 200m specialist was at the school as part of the Love School Programme, which links professional athletes with local schools.
He said: “I think it’s extremely important for athletes to visit schools.
“We were very fortunate to have a home Olympic Games in 2012 and it falls upon us athletes to inspire the next generation.
“Whether this is in sport or in other aspects of life, the future is currently sitting in our classrooms and it’s our responsibility to inspire them to achieve greatness.”
Gareth, who represents Wales and Great Britain, spent the first part of his visit to St John’s talking to the whole school in assembly.
He gave the children some helpful hints as to what makes a successful athlete and the motivation needed to pursue their goals.
The athlete – whose next aim is to represent Great Britain in Rio – then led mini Olympic sessions with the children in years 2, 3 and 4.
Team GB sprinter Gareth Hopkins was a guest at St John’s C of E First School in Wimborne where he put the pupils through their paces.
Head of St John’s, Katharine Anstey, said: “The whole school was thrilled to welcome Gareth Hopkins – his visit created such a buzz.
“It was great for the children to hear first-hand how with determination and hard work you can really make your dreams come true.
“His visit was inspirational and shows that the legacy from London 2012 is still being felt four years later and now for a new generation.”
Love School was formed in 2012 to bring achieving athletes into schools with the purpose of motivating the youth and inspiring a future generation of champions.
Its aim is to continue ‘inspiring a generation’ post the London Olympics and beyond.
St John’s First School is one of seven First and Middle schools in Wimborne Academy Trust, along with Allenbourn Middle School, Colehill First School, Hayeswood First School, Merley First School, St Michael’s Middle School and Witchampton First School.
WAT was formed in March 2015.
All of its academies are rated either Good or Outstanding.
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