Ixworth students inspired by visit from Paralympic and Deaflympic athletes

Students at Ixworth Free School have enjoyed an inspiring, action-packed day with Paralympic swimmer Ryan Crouch, who competed in the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, and elite deaf football player Fil Kamps who competed in the World Cup and 2017 Deaflympics. The athletes’ visit on December 6 was followed by the School’s annual Achievement Evening, where Ryan Crouch also attended as guest speaker and presented awards to students.

The athletes held a whole-school assembly where they shared their exceptional journeys into sport, inspiring students with stories of determination, strength, and resilience, before hosting a series of fitness sessions with students in Years 7 to 10.

Students of all ages were then presented with certificates and awards by Ryan Crouch at the School’s annual Achievement Evening, which recognised individual achievements in academic subjects, GCSE progress, overcoming adversity and contributions to the local community.

Mark Barrow, Headteacher at Ixworth Free School, said: “We would like to thank Ryan and Fil for both taking the time to visit Ixworth Free School, it has been a fantastic day full of celebration and inspiration for students in all years. It was wonderful to hear stories of great determination and success from the athletes, followed by students celebrating their own successes at our Achievement Evening.”

The athletes’ visit was arranged by Inspired Through Sport who raise money for schools to invest in sport, and support aspiring young athletes on their Olympic and Paralympic journeys. Visit www.inspiredthroughsport.co.uk to find out more.