Reigate Park Pupils meet Gladiator ‘Fury’ in book event

Children from The Harmony Trust’s Reigate Park Academy enjoyed a Gladiatorial meet-the-author event where Fury introduced her new book ‘Keep Smashing It: Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Confident.’

Gladiator ‘Fury,’ real name, Jodie Ounsley, appeared at the Mackworth Estate Academy as part of The Harmony Trust’s ‘Read, Achieve, Succeed’ strategy.

Read, Achieve, Succeed is at the heart of all academies. Just part of the strategy involves each child being able to choose a book to keep from a pop-up bookshop that sets up in their school every year.

‘Fury’ spoke to over 200 Key Stage Two children about facing challenges in life and believing in yourself. Jodie went on to describe her dreams of Olympic success and how she had to work hard and never give up despite injuries and setbacks.

Jodie’s appearance was particularly exciting for Reigate pupils as the ‘Gladiators’ and England Rugby Sevens star is deaf, and the Academy operates a 12-place Enhanced Resource Provision (ERP) for deaf children.

One of the children asked the Gladiator what inspired her to write her book and she spoke to them about how being deaf had made her stronger as a person.

Fury being introduced by Principal Karen Ratcliff.jpg — A member of staff signed alongside Jodie to ensure access for all.

Karen Ratcliff, Principal of Reigate Park Academy said: “This was such an exciting event for the children. It was wonderful to have such a strong deaf role-model at our Academy and show all our children that no matter what challenges you face, hard work, determination and resilience pays off.”

Zoe Mc Loughlin, a year 6 pupil from the Academy said: “It was fantastic to meet Jodie because she was telling us to believe in ourselves.” Zoe continued: “It was an amazing experience as I watch Gladiators and I really love Fury’s determination.”

Antony Hughes, CEO, The Harmony Trust added: “Author visits are a key part of our ‘Read, Achieve, Succeed’ strategy as we know they help to inspire children to both read and write, as well as developing a life-long love for reading. We’re very grateful to our partners, educational booksellers Madeleine Lindley for facilitating the event.”

Rachelle Carter from Madeleine Lindley said: “We were delighted to bring Jodie to the children at Reigate Park. Jodie’s journey to becoming a Gladiator is inspiring and to see the children so engaged and excited was a pleasure to witness.”