Students at Duke of Lancaster School, a special autism school in Fakenham, Norfolk, received specialist fitness training during a recent visit from a Team GB athlete.
Wes Greenidge, a member of the British Judo national squad, led workshops in which students completed a series of fitness circuits, challenging them to train like Team GB.
After the workshops, students were treated to an assembly in which Wes told stories from his judo career, showed them his various medals from his career as an athlete, and discussed the Olympics.
On the day, students were also encouraged to try new sports and consider how to incorporate fitness into their daily lives.
“It was great! I’ve never played judo before,” said Cameron, Year 5.
Teddy, Year 9, agreed: “It was really good and gave me insight into what’s out there!”
“It inspired me and was very cool to see!” said Rhys, Year 9.
The visit was organised by ActivKids UK, a national organisation that brings Team GB athletes into schools to inspire young people to stay active and learn more about healthy lifestyles. Visits are arranged at no cost to the school, with children sponsored to participate by friends and family which pays for the event.
Duke of Lancaster School, which is part of Eastern Education Group, arranges regular visits from high-profile figures to capture students’ interest and help relate their subjects to real-world skills. Last month, students were visited by popular children’s author Sam Copeland, who spoke to them about life as an author and his Charlie Changes series.
“Having the GB Judo athlete Wes Greenidge visit us was an exciting way to engage children in exercise,” said Mrs. Fusco, PE Lead at the school. “Through the circuit activity Wes led, the students practised following instructions and listening skills, and recognised the effects of exercise on their bodies. We were lucky enough to see a real medal and learn about the rules of judo; we even saw a clip of Wes winning a match!
“We are liaising with Wes to book future events here where we hope he will come back and lead judo workshops with our students.”
