IWD

Schools across Wellspring have been celebrating the achievements and contributions of women throughout this month, as part of International Women’s Day.

Last week, students at Trent View College were treated to empowering talks from three exceptional women. Bev Chesman, a dedicated school nurse and avid runner, showcased her impressive collection of over 60 running event medals while sharing insights into her dual passions of nursing and running. Karen Gray, an advocate and role model for young people with learning difficulties, shared her life journey as a person with learning difficulties finding employment with Tesco.  Kayleigh McDonald, who embarked on a remarkable career journey by joining the Army at 17 and serving in conflict zones like Iraq and Afghanistan, also shared her experiences as an ambulance technician, particularly her invaluable support during the Covid-19 pandemic. Currently, Kayleigh serves as a Patient and Family Liaison Officer for Notts and Lincs Air Ambulance.

At both Oakhill Primary and The Forest Academy in Barnsley, girls took part in the Let Girls Play scheme – an initiative aimed at encouraging girls to play football. Children from across the schools were invited to come to school dressed in their sports kit, and the girls took part in special activities. 

The budding footballers were joined by a special visitor at The Forest Academy – local MP and shadow sports minister Stephanie Peacock. Stephanie enthusiastically joined in with the day, stating she was “pleased to visit Forest Academy…to join their #LetGirlsPlay event’ and it was “great to hear about the activities in and outside of school to encourage girls to play football and take part in sport.”