A DOUBLE Commonwealth Games gold medallist has taught pupils a gymnastics lesson they won't forget.
Craig Heap, a judge on BBC's Tumble and former England gymnastic team captain, visited pupils from Kirkleatham Hall School as part of a new £56m Sport England initiative.
Sportivate offers children and young adults up to eight weeks of free coaching in a range of activities including judo, wakeboarding and free running.
The pupils from Redcar and Cleveland are halfway through the course. They are learning how to use gymnastic rings, jump-mats and a purpose built assault course.
Mr Heap said: "I think Sportivate provides some great opportunities and I have thoroughly loved working with the children - they have been fantastic.
"It gives youngsters the chance to try something new in a safe environment."
Katrina Kirk, a senior gymnastics instructor, said: "It has been brilliant fun. Craig is lovely with the children and they love having him show them all the great aspects of gymnastics."
Chris Homer, a teacher who attended the event, said the sessions had been a "great experience" for the students.
He added: "Using the facilities and receiving quality coaching has not only improved skills such as balance and coordination but has also helped build the students' confidence and self-esteem."
Zoe Lewis, principal at Middlesbrough College where the sessions are taking place, said: "It was a pleasure to have Craig back and it is wonderful to see how much the children have progressed."
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