Despite the warm weather, the students approached the badminton sessions with enthusiasm and dedication. Gail, who began playing badminton at just four years old and who represented England from 1995 until her retirement in 2008, focused on teaching the speed and movement techniques required for elite-level play and appreciated the students' energy and engagement. “Visiting St Margaret’s has been a wonderful experience,” she noted. “The children’s energy and effort were impressive, and it was great to see them engage and ask thoughtful questions.”

The evening continued with a presentation and panel discussion for students and their parents, providing insight into the School’s High Performance Programme. Year 12 student Elenie spoke about the HPP's supportive environment and the crucial role of her school mentor in helping her balance sports and academics. 

Gail shared her perspective on the significance of sports in career development,

She advised the young athletes to embrace pressure, seek improvement, and maintain a training diary to prepare for future challenges.

St Margaret’s HPP event was more than just a day of athletic training. Celebrating talent, dedication and the relentless pursuit of excellence, pupils listened to the story of Gail’s rise to sporting success, and left the evening with not only new skills and techniques, but also a renewed sense of purpose and the belief that with hard work and perseverance, they too could reach the pinnacles of success in their chosen sports.