On Friday 11 November, Chester based independent school Abbey Gate College welcomed a very special guest at their Remembrance Day assembly.
The co-educational school listened to motivational speaker and Invictus Games gold medal winner Jaco Van Gass talk about his experiences in overcoming adversity. The 30-year-old sustained life changing injuries resulting in the loss of his left arm in Afghanistan where he was a member of the British Armed Forces Parachute Regiment.
The South African gave a captivating talk to the pupils describing how, despite his injury, he excelled at the 2014 Invictus Games, has completed several marathons and trekked to the North Pole which helped to raise £1.5million for charity Walking With The Wounded.
Jaco spent time talking to the children about what he has overcome and how they should never let anything get in the way of what they want to achieve.
Deputy Head David Meadows said: “Jaco was an inspiration to all of the pupils at the College. His enthusiasm and thirst for life was infectious and the children left the assembly moved and motivated by his message about being the best you can be.”
Abbey Gate College is the longest running, independent co-educational school for pupils aged 4 to 18 based in the Chester area. Both their Infant and Junior School and Senior School emphasise the importance of building self-esteem and a love of learning in a friendly and caring environment. They value each and every child and the potential in every pupil is nurtured and encouraged.
