Clare Balding Launches School Sport Programme

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Scheme supports top sportswomen at Putney High

TV presenter Clare Balding was at Putney High School this week to help launch a new programme designed to help talented athletes succeed at both their academic work and their sport.

The talk was described as 'inspirational' by staff, parents and pupils.

Clare is pictured baovewith Putney High School pupils (left to right): runner Katy Ann McDonald, ranked first nationally for U15 800m and 1500m; athlete Alexandra Brown, who is ranked first in the UK for U13 1500metre; gymnast Alice Kelly, who came fifth at the World Tumbling championships; Golfer Eleanor Lace, who is in the Great British U16 squad and gymnast Isabella Mais, who has achieved international success in tumbling

Putney High School’s Elite Sportswoman Programme is a school support programme for talented young sportswomen assisting with the management and balance of school and sports demands.

Selected talented athletes on the sports ‘Gifted and Talented’ register within the school. This would include those who are dedicating significant hours to training outside of school due to competing at Regional or National level in their discipline.

The scheme supports girls with their sport, work and life balance, monitors academic progress and make sure they are on track and helps to maximise their potential in their sport. It involves mentor support, workshops and possible time allowance for training demands.