Beyond the ring: Calum French teaches Kingsmeadow students about resilience and success
Last month, students at Kingsmeadow Community School were thrilled to welcome local lad and former Team GB boxer Calum French. Calum, a European bronze medallist and pro super-lightweight boxer, shared incredible insights from his career, including a stunning 35-fight winning streak as an amateur.
More importantly, he shared his story of building personal resilience and developing a positive, winning mindset.
It’s always a pleasure to hear about inspiring visitors in our region’s schools!
A fantastic, unique opportunity for pupils
Calum has travelled the world with his boxing career, but supporting the local community remains a priority to him. That’s why he chose to visit Kingsmeadow — to inspire the students and share his valuable skills and experiences.
Calum said: “It is a pleasure to visit Kingsmeadow and showcase boxing drills, exercises, and light-contact techniques. Best of all was fielding all of the students’ questions – I’m delighted they were so eager and they were a pleasure to meet and teach.”
Mr. Barrett, Head Teacher at Kingsmeadow, was equally enthusiastic: He said: “The students (and some staff) loved the boxing sessions and came out smiling even through their exhaustion!
“This was a great opportunity for our students to see and speak to a professional sportsperson. It is wonderful to be able to give the students these experiences, and a huge thank you to Calum for giving up his time and expertise for the students of Kingsmeadow Community School.”
“It’s brilliant to see schools inviting local role models like Calum into their classrooms,” added Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East. “These real-world connections provide invaluable inspiration and truly bring learning to life for our young people, showing them what’s possible with dedication and a resilient mindset.”
It sounds like a truly memorable day for everyone at Kingsmeadow. What a brilliant way to inspire students with lessons in sportsmanship, discipline, and mental fortitude.
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