Awesome John Willmott students inspired by best-selling writer and Olympian

Awesome John Willmott students were inspired by a special start to secondary school last week.


They each received a copy of Matthew Syed’s best-selling children’s book ‘You Are Awesome!’ along with a special video message from the author himself, wishing the new students ‘good luck’ for the year ahead.

Matthew Syed’s message to John Willmott students.


His message included advice about taking ownership of their lives and giving things a go, as well as bouncing back if things do not quite work out.

Awesome John Willmott students inspired by book


Lisa Lockley, assistant headteacher at John Willmott School, which is part of the respected Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP), said: “We are using this book as part of our induction programme for Year 7. It is intended to inspire and empower young people to find the confidence to realise their potential. We are delighted to receive a personal message from the author to kick start our programme.”

We are using this wonderful book to help our students develop resilience, learn from their mistakes and develop into successful young people,”
– HEADTEACHER TRACY PETERS.


The author, a Times journalist and two-time Olympian, uses examples of successful people to demonstrate that success really is earned rather than given, and that talent can be acquired.

He told the awesome John Willmott students: “I hope you enjoy the book and good luck with the rest of the year!”

Journalist and former Olympian Matthew Syed.
Journalist and former Olympian Matthew Syed.

Tracey Peters, John Willmott headteacher, said: “We are using this wonderful book to help our students develop resilience, learn from their mistakes and develop into successful young people. The author’s philosophy is that with hard work and determination, practice and self-belief, there’s no reason why anyone can’t achieve anything.”

For more about John Willmott, click here.

To visit the John Willmott website, click here.

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