Old Westbournian Toby Harries, who brought home a bronze medal from the Paris Olympics, spent the day back at his old school
We have a feeling that meeting Old Westbournian Toby Harries, 4x400 relay Paris Olympian, may stay long in the memory of our pupils at Westbourne House.
“Wow! I can’t believe he used to come to this school. Look at what he’s achieved. So inspiring.”
Year 6 pupil
Toby Harries joined Westbourne House Nursery in 2003 and left after Year 8 in 2012. Toby shared his stories of many happy years at Westbourne House, of starting his love of sport and 'running around' (including games of 'it' in the boundaries), of playing rugby until the age of 16, of changing sports, of his journey to the Olympics, of mentors and friends that keep you going, and of working incredibly hard towards your goal.
Pupils were astonished - was this Olympian really one of us not so long ago? Had he really gone to school here? Without doubt he had an inspirational impact on many pupils across the school.
Thank you to Toby for sharing his passion and story with everyone and for spending so much time with pupils during the day. He talked to everyone from Reception to Year 8 and reminded us all how important it is to never give up on your dreams.
Racing Year 1 and 2 children
Relay game with a 4x400 relay Olympian!
Our Year 6 pupils had a PE lesson with Toby, first in the sports hall, then out on the track. Our pupils learnt that one of Team GB's greatest strengths is the baton pass and by making it as smooth and swift as possible, you might well clinch that win. They finished with a relay game involving the whole year group, with Lane 3 coming up trumps!
"An unforgettable experience to meet an Olympian."
Year 7 pupil