RUDHEATH pupils have been put through their paces in a training session with former British Lion Phil Greening.

Students in Year 9 and 10 at Rudheath Senior Academy paid a visit to the former England rugby star’s fitness facility – The Athlete Factory.

Based in the grounds of Chester Rugby Club, the academy aims to promote healthy living with 24-cap hooker Greening at the helm.

Pupils roared through an intensive circuit of exercises designed to get them enjoying being active.

Phil said: “Part of my aim in opening The Athlete Factory was to bring world class training techniques to everyone.

“I’m particularly passionate about helping young people get active and understand the importance of healthy living, so I’m delighted that school children are making use of the facilities and equipment we have here.”

Phil is the Sports Ambassador for the North West Academies Trust (NWAT), which is one of the highest performing trusts in the country and took over the Shipbrook Road school in November.

A far-reaching improvement plan aimed at lifting standards across the board and providing children with the best possible all-round education is already underway.

Richard Russell, head of PE at the school, said: “We are working to improve sporting provision at the academy and these experiences are the perfect motivation for our pupils to achieve great things.

“Working with someone who has reached the highest level in their sport and learning new techniques is a fantastic experience and they enjoyed every minute of it.”

Steve Docking, CEO of NWAT, added: “We are very proud to have Phil as our Sports Ambassador, and excited at the opportunity this presents for our children to access first-class facilities and fitness coaching.

“We work hard to make sure children are challenged and motivated to achieve their best.

“Promoting sport and a healthy lifestyle is fundamental to everything we do and it’s great that our children have an inspirational role model.”

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