On Tuesday 22nd January Olympian Paul Evans spent the day at Clackclose School inspiring the children by talking to them about his career as an international athlete and getting them to participate in training sessions.
Paul represented Great Britain twice in the Olympic Games – Barcelona in 1992 and Atlanta in 1996 and won the Chicago Marathon in 1996. He now works for Active Norfolk as an Ambassador for his sport.
His role takes him into the community to work with schools and running clubs to help develop participation and also develop new initiatives to inspire others to take part.
The snow did not dampen anyone’s spirits and due to the school having a large hall Paul was able to take his training indoors. After talking to the whole of Key Stage 2 in assembly he held training sessions with each class. They were fun sessions and enabled all abilities to get involved in throwing, running and jumping.
At lunch time a special table was set up where lunch ‘fit for an athlete’ was served to Paul and several children, who had been picked out especially because they had really well thought out questions to ask him.
Paul spent a good 40 minutes over lunch answering questions and signing autographs and the children had a great time quizzing him about his career.
Deputy Head Rebecca Westall said “Raising aspirations is one of our key priorities as a school. We want children to look forward to life beyond school and for them to be aware of the many opportunities available to them. We aim to inspire children through our exciting curriculum and through making learning real with visiting sports people, authors and people from different careers.”
“Paul Evans’ enthusiasm and dedication shone through his visit and this inspired the children with one child heard saying, ‘ He is awesome!'” Ms Westall continued.
The day was completed when the school running club met Paul in the library for a question and answer session. The children asked him about the best foods to eat, tactics he used and why he had chosen running above any other sport.
A fantastic day was had by all and Paul felt that the visit had been immensely successful due to the willingness and enthusiasm of the children to take part and their desire to find out more about him and his sport.
