We were thrilled to welcome Olympic athlete, Amy Tinkler, a bronze medal winner in floor gymnastics at Rio in 2016, into school last week.
Pupils were able to ask Amy questions about her gymnastics career and her training ahead of Tokyo 2020.
Headteacher Annalei Bartlett said: “It was an absolute pleasure to have Amy in school talking to the pupils about what it takes to be an Olympian.
“She spoke of the values we hold high in school and inspired the children to persevere and achieve their dreams.
“The children were particularly excited that she had brought her medal and they were able to see and touch a real Olympic medal.”
Amy, who began her gymnastics career in Durham aged just two, added: “I was very impressed with the questions the children asked me. They were superb and the children were genuinely interested throughout my visit.
“I enjoyed being part of their day and handing out certificates too.”
Thanks to Persimmon Homes Durham and the company's partnership with Team GB for making the visit possible.
Richard Cook, director in charge of Persimmon Homes Durham, said: “Persimmon Homes is keen to put something back into the communities in which we are building. Sacriston Academy is thriving and going from strength to strength and it was a pleasure to be able to visit along with Amy as part of our partnership with Team GB.
“The children were interested in Amy’s path to becoming an Olympic athlete, and who knows, she may have inspired some athletes of the future.”
“Her determination and dedication to gymnastics was very evident and we wish her all the best for Tokyo 2020.”
Persimmon Homes is an official partner of Team GB as it prepares for Tokyo 2020 and beyond.
Persimmon Homes has a range of three and four-bedroom homes available at Monkswood in Sacriston, with prices starting from £149,950.