Schools

Olympic gymnast Beth Tweddle inspires pupils at Warden Hill Junior School

Olympic bronze medalist and gymnastics icon Beth Tweddle MBE brought a spark of inspiration to Warden Hill Junior School on Wednesday, April 23, as she shared her journey with pupils, promoting the importance of physical activity and healthy living.

Beth Tweddle (second left) with Mrs Skyers (Right) and pupils from Warden Hill Juniors.

Tweddle, a three-time Olympian and trailblazer in British gymnastics, visited the school to speak with students about her career, the benefits of sport, and the lifelong lessons it can provide. Her message was simple but powerful: sport can change lives.

The visit, organised by the school’s PE Lead, Mr Charlie Betts, was part of Warden Hill’s ongoing efforts to make the physical education creative, inclusive, and motivating. “At Warden Hill Juniors, we want to promote a creative and inspiring PE curriculum,” said Mr Betts. 

“Having sports role models like Beth Tweddle shows our pupils that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible. They help children see that hard work leads to success—not just in sport, but in life too."

Beth Tweddle’s legacy in gymnastics is unparalleled in British history. She was the first British female gymnast to win medals at the European Championships, World Championships, and Olympic Games. Her career highlights include:

  • Three-time World Champion
  • Six-time European Champion
  • Olympic Bronze Medalist at London 2012

Beyond the gymnastics arena, Tweddle also found success in the world of entertainment, winning ITV’s Dancing on Ice in 2013.

During her visit, she spoke passionately about how gymnastics not only builds strength and flexibility but also nurtures confidence, discipline, and teamwork. Her story particularly resonated with young girls, encouraging many to consider sports as a path to self-belief and achievement.

Beth answered questions from enthusiastic students and led a motivational talk about setting goals, overcoming setbacks, and embracing an active lifestyle.

Her presence left a lasting impact, with students buzzing about gymnastics and keen to get more involved in PE.

As Warden Hill Juniors continues to champion sports in school life, Beth Tweddle’s visit served as a timely reminder of the power of role models in shaping the aspirations of young people.