Beccles Paralympic champion Will Ellard visits The Albert Pye Community Primary School to inspire pupils

A Paralympic gold medallist has made a splash with pupils at his former school.

Will Ellard, who broke the world record for the men’s S14 200m freestyle last year, meet with Year 6 pupils at The Albert Pye Community Primary School in Beccles.

Pupils were delighted to hear about how the 19-year-old swimmer – who competes in the S14 category – began his career, while offering insight into his training regime, his experiences competing and his inspirations.

They were given the chance to hold his gold medal and take home autographs as a memento.

Louise Creed, head of school, said both staff and students were hugely grateful to Mr Ellard for paying a visit.

She said: “Providing inclusive sporting activities for all our children is really important to our school and hearing from Will was a brilliant experience for Year 6.

“Will has thoroughly succeeded in inspiring our pupils and we look forward to continuing to cheer him on.”

Mr Ellard was born and raised in Beccles.

He secured three medals at the 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris.

His visit was particularly noteworthy for the school’s Panathlon team.

School staff take pride in providing an opportunity for children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) to compete in sporting activities, Ms Creed added.

Pupils who met with Mr Ellard are set to tell of his visit in the school newspaper.

In addition, 15 youngsters were invited to watch him compete later this month.