Ellie Simmonds OBE presents assembly for JAGS students
Ellie Simmonds OBE is a British former Paralympian swimmer and a great inspiration to our pupils.
It was an honour to welcome Ellie Simmonds OBE to speak at our assembly yesterday morning. Ellie is a four-time Paralympic champion and is the holder of a number of world records. She won her first Paralymic swimming medal when she was just 13 years old, went on to become the youngest winner of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2008 and she was the youngest recipient of an MBE when she was just 14 years old. She has continued to dominate her sport of swimming, winning 13 world titles and 10 European titles. She also competed at the London 2012 Paralympics, winning four medals including two gold.
Ellie spoke to the JAGS community about her amazing journey to Paralympic success. It was so interesting to hear how Ellie balanced her schoolwork and being a professional athlete, and the sheer amount of hard work and dedication behind her incredible career. She also spoke about the importance of discussing mental health, and how this has been fundamental to her career. She also gave students her tips for coping and excelling when under stress or pressure.
Students had the opportunity to ask Ellie questions, and these included asking which medal was Ellie’s favourite, which charities Ellie has worked with, how Ellie balanced her school, swimming and her social life, and how she coped with pressure at big competitions.
A huge thank you to Ellie for taking the time to speak to us – you are a role model for us all!