This week Paralympic swimmer, Rachael Latham visited pupils at Blacklow Brow Primary School in Huyton for a morning of sport.
Pupils from pre-school to year 6 took part in the high energy sessions where Rachel showed children some simple exercises, they can do anywhere to keep them healthy, active and happy.
Cllr Christine Bannon, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Health and Nadine Carroll, Head of Education at Knowsley Council attended the morning to find out more.
Cllr Bannon commented: “I was delighted to join this wonderful morning of sport. We all know the benefits of an active lifestyle. Not only is it important for physical health it also plays a key role in our mental health. It was fantastic to see the work Rachel did with the pupils and we’re so grateful she took the time to share her skills with Knowsley children.
“What I found most inspirational was Rachel’s story of achieving her sporting goals despite living with a disability. Her determination and story of maintaining a positive attitude is something I’ll certainly remember and I’m sure the children will too.”
The morning was organised by Penny Paes, Year 4 Class Teacher and PE Lead at Blacklow Brow Primary School as well as Knowsley’s Teacher of the Year 2022. Penny said:
“So many sporting stars have come out of Knowsley and I’m sure that there are pupils in our schools right now who are future sporting legends. Hosting Rachael was a brilliant way of showing our pupils the importance and life changing potential of sport – it was a wonderful day.”
Sport really is in the borough’s DNA and was celebrated in 2022 during the 6-day Knowsley Legends Sporting Relay. Starting at Everton FC’s training ground in Halewood on Monday 18 July, the relay travelled the length of the borough with support from local communities, sporting groups and local sportspeople, before reaching its dramatic climax on Saturday 23 July at the Eddie McCardle Playing Fields – in the shadow of Liverpool FC’s AXA Training Centre. Relive the magic of those 6 high octane days here.
Cllr Bannon continued: “This week’s visit is a fantastic legacy of our year of culture and it’s exciting to think events such as this, organised by our dedicated schools, are nurturing the talent of future sportspeople.”
Rachael Latham’s visit was organised with Sports for School who organise for UK and Irish athletes to visit schools. Read more about Sports for Schools here.