Waycroft Academy was delighted to welcome retired Winter Olympian and Team GB skeleton racer Laura Deas for a special visit designed to inspire pupils through sport and perseverance.
Laura, who represented Team GB, enjoyed a highly successful career, winning her maiden Skeleton World Cup race in Altenberg in November 2015, following earlier podium finishes with silver in Calgary and bronze in St Moritz. She later achieved international acclaim by reaching the Olympic podium at the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics.
The visit was organised through the school’s partnership with Great Athletes, a social enterprise that connects Olympic and elite athletes with primary schools across the UK to motivate children through fitness and personal development.
Two special assemblies were held. In the first, 390 pupils from Reception through to Year 6 took part in an energetic fitness circuit led by Laura, testing their stamina and teamwork.
The second assembly gave pupils the opportunity to engage in a question-and-answer session, where Laura shared insights into the dedication, resilience, and mindset required to become a world-class Olympic athlete.
As part of the initiative, children were encouraged to seek sponsorship from families, parents, and carers to participate in the event. Funds raised will go directly towards purchasing new sports equipment for the school, supporting ongoing physical activity and wellbeing.
Emma Sweet, Vice Principal at Waycroft Academy, said: “Having Laura visit our school has been an incredible experience for our pupils.
“Her story of determination, resilience and success has truly inspired everyone. Events like this not only promote physical activity but also show our children what can be achieved with hard work and belief.
“We are extremely grateful to Great Athletes for making this opportunity possible.”
