LSA Sports students were delighted to receive a second visit from the qualifying Olympic boxer, Natasha Jones. A selected group of Gifted & Talented students spent the day with her organising a festival of sport for pupils from our feeder primary school.  She helped to plan events, gave ideas as to how the event could be original and successful and encouraged our students how they can use their talents effectively.  She stressed that hard work and determination was the backbone of her successes.  There then followed a question and answer session. Later there was an opportunity to get involved in different sparring games with lots of advice from the expert.The afternoon primary school event was aimed at Year 3 and 4 pupils when Natasha mixed with the children, encouraging and motivating them to complete their events, to great success.

This visit was part of the Sky Sports Living Project, a free initiative for secondary schools.  Natasha previously visited LSA to deliver assemblies and work with GCSE classes on the subject of nutrition and training.

Catherine Salthouse, PE Teacher, said  “Natasha was an inspiration to our gifted and talented students and the primary pupils.  It was a brilliant experience for them and something they will remember for the rest of their lives.”

Natasha said "I always wanted to be in the Olympics since I was a kid but I never knew how I was going to get there.  I just knew I would.  I honestly believe that if students really want to achieve, and put in the hard work, they will succeed. "

Phoebe Baxter, Year 9 said "It was an amazing experience.  Never thought I would be sparring with an Olympic athlete."  (pictures sparring with Natasha).