Olympic medallist returns to inspire students at Peterlee
The latest news from St Bede’s Catholic School and Byron Sixth Form College is certainly worth gold.
Lauren Irwin, Olympic bronze medallist and former pupil at the Peterlee school, which is part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Educational Trust, made an emotional return to her former school, to inspire the next generation of students.
Lauren, who won the prestigious medal in the women’s eight rowing team at the Paris 2024 Olympics, spoke passionately about the encouragement she received from her PE teacher, who encouraged her to take up rowing while at the school. Lauren said: “it’s been incredible bringing back a bronze medal, seeing my PE teacher has just been a full circle moment”.
Gemma Brown, Lauren’s former PE teacher, became overwhelmed with emotion upon seeing Lauren again. She said: “I’m really really proud – it’s not very often as a PE teacher you can say: I’ve taught an Olympic athlete.”
The visit included an engaging question-and-answer session where students had the opportunity to ask the Olympian about her athletic journey, challenges she faced, and the mind set needed to achieve greatness.
Mrs Cessford, Head Teacher of St Bede’s, praised the Olympian for taking time out of her busy schedule to visit her former school, saying: “We are incredibly proud of Lauren and the example she has set for our students. At St Bede’s we strive to inspire and motivate everyone to be the person God intended them to be. Lauren is proof that with determination and passion, anything is possible.
The visit was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from both students and staff. Lauren concluded her visit by offering encouragement to the students saying, “it’s really special to bring back a medal and hopefully inspire the younger generation”.
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “We were delighted to hear of Lauren’s return to St Bede’s. We know that our region is teeming with talented people from all walks of life, and Lauren’s visit will have surely inspired the next generation of not only athletes, but everyone with a specific goal in mind.”
Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust is a Schools North East Partner Trust . If you’d like to find out more about our Partner School membership, click here.
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