Olympic Kayaker’s Visit Pushes Pool Academy Students to Dream Bigger

Team GB’s Rebekah Green Inspires Young Athletes in Cornwall

Students at Pool Academy were given a motivational boost this month when Team GB medal-winning kayaker Rebekah Green visited the school to share her story and lead a session of fitness challenges.

Rebekah’s visit was designed to inspire students to embrace resilience, responsibility, and determination as part of their learning and sporting journeys. She spoke openly about her experiences in kayaking, the importance of staying active, and how perseverance helped her achieve her goals.

After an introduction to her sport and a close look at her professional kayaking equipment, students took part in circuit training challenges led by Rebekah, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Rebekah began her kayaking journey at just ten years old after watching slalom athletes train at Lee Valley White Water Centre with her mum. Encouraged to give it a go, she joined Lee Valley Paddlesports Club and progressed from flat water to white-water paddling.

Her proudest moment so far was earning her place on the GB team. Looking ahead, Rebekah hopes to compete in both the C1 and K1 disciplines at future world championships and aims for a podium finish as she continues to push her athletic limits.

Encouraging Aspiration and Wellbeing

Pool Academy, part of Athena Learning Trust, focuses on helping students develop physical and social skills through a broad PE curriculum. Alongside lessons, students can take part in extra-curricular sports such as football, hockey, rounders, and athletics.

Principal Nick Ward said:

“We were absolutely delighted to welcome Rebekah Green to Pool Academy. Her visit showed our students the power of resilience, responsibility, and determination, both in sport and in life. She encouraged them to dream big, stay active, and believe in what they can achieve, lessons that will stay with them far beyond their time in school.”

A School Built on Aspiration and Respect

Pool Academy’s core values of aspiration, belonging, and respect are central to its ethos. The school holds high expectations for student conduct and achievement, supported by a calm learning environment and strong pastoral care.

According to Ofsted inspectors, pupils at Pool Academy “feel safe at school and value the strong pastoral support they receive.” They also noted that “pupils learn in quiet and calm classrooms, from a well-planned curriculum.”