Dame Kelly Holmes Attends Year 11 Record of Achievement

The Heathland School was honoured this term by a visitation from Double Gold Olympic Medal winner Dame Kelly Holmes. Prior to the event Kelly said ‘I am delighted to have the opportunity to visit Heathland School. Standing on the podium in Athens to receive my gold medals meant the world to me, and I am looking forward to joining in the celebration of the student’s success by awarding them their ‘Records of Achievement’’ about her forthcoming visit. A wish that seemed to come true, as she spent time talking to students and posing for photographs with them.

Headmaster Mr Pattar added, ‘Perhaps the most important message for pupils was her determination to “try her very best” when faced with a challenge and to learn from failure. Dame Kelly talked about missing a gold medal at the Sydney Olympics because she allowed her mind to be distracted as she approached the finishing tape and she was overtaken by two other athletes. She showed the determination to learn from this and her gutsy performances in the 800 metres and 1,500 metres in Athens were rewarded with double Gold medals. She was happy to pass the medals round to the audience after her presentation.

A great athlete with a fantastic personality, pupils and staff will remember her visit to The Heathland for a long time’.