Inspirational People

At Bursledon - one of our core values is ASPIRE - and we are committed to bring inspirational people into our schools because it has a powerful impact on our children's motivation, aspirations and a sense of what is possible! Our visitors broaden the children's horizons, raise aspirations, provide real-life role models, connect their learning and dreams to the real world, inspire personal growth, build cultural capital and create memorable learning moments. 

In 2026: 

Terry Price is widely recognised as one of the leading figures in the world of freestyle scootering, celebrated internationally for his championship titles, innovation in the sport, and his dedication to inspiring young riders. He is known not only for his athletic skill and daring stunts, but also for his energy, positivity, and commitment to helping children believe in themselves.

Terry worked with our pupils, sharing his journey from a determined young rider to a world champion. He spoke powerfully about perseverance, practice, and the importance of following your passion even when the path is challenging. Through a series of exciting demonstrations and interactive workshops, he showed pupils how discipline, courage and a growth mindset are essential both in sport and in life.

Parent Comments 

"My child came home absolutely buzzing - Terry inspired them in a way I've never seen before. Thank you for giving them such a memorable experience."

"From when we arrived we could see the ramps and the van setting up and the excitement was superb."

"All my child now wants is a new scooter! However Terry explained to them - to ask for Birthday or Christmas! Great thinking Terry!"

“I’m so grateful the school invests in experiences like this. Terry was fantastic, and the children clearly learned so much about resilience and believing in themselves.”

In 2025: 

Chris Lubbe is best known as a former bodyguard to Nelson Mandela, serving in that role for around 9 years during Mandela’s leadership and South Africa’s transition out of apartheid.  He is also an anti-apartheid activist, keynote speaker, and storyteller whose life story reflects resilience, leadership, and forgiveness.

Chris worked with our pupils talking to them about apartheid and social justice. He shared Mandela's leadership style and carried out workshops on forgiveness and reconciliation paired with the power of resilience and hope. Pupils created their own peaceful protests, raps, letters and or presentations on an area they felt was one of their social injustices. Many parents attended and evening after school event with Chris, where he gave a mini-talk to parents and then the pupils showcased their incredible work. 

Pupil comments:

'He is the most incredible man I think I have ever met in my life. What a story!'

'Imagine meeting the Queen, Michael Jackson and the Spice Girls - but yet the work you do is changing human kind.'

'I didn't know people could be treated so badly, because of their skin colour.'

'What he talked about I connected with - especially with our current book - Hidden Figures.' 

'This is not fair. It makes me want to stand up to others. Make changes. Chris never gave up when things were hard. I will take this with me.'

'Nelson taught him and Chris has taught us - forgiveness - the most powerful weapon of all.'

'We all matter. We all deserve fairness. I want to be someone who makes a difference.' 

 Parent comments 

'I think this is the best school event I have ever attended. I am so thankful the children at Bursledon are having these opportunities' 

“I left today feeling genuinely moved. What an incredible event — our children are so lucky to be part of a school that thinks this boldly.”

“What happened today will stay with the children forever. I’m grateful they are being exposed to such powerful learning moments.”