STUDENTS at Tadcaster Grammar School have been inspired to 'reach for the Sky' following a visit by British tennis player Jade Windley and World Thai boxing champion Rachael MacKenzie.

Representing Sky Sports' 'Living For Sport' programme, Windley and MacKenzie spent the day with a selection of Year 8 and 9 students.

The duo offered an insight into the qualities needed for success and delivered practical workshops focusing on teamwork, communication, leadership skills and resilience.

Windley has won three singles and 16 doubles titles on the ITF tour and reached her best singles ranking of world number 279 in April 2014.

MacKenzie started Thai boxing in 2000 and topped the world rankings in two weight categories (50kg and 52kg) just six years later.

She is taking on the role of 'Senior Athlete Mentor' this year visiting schools which have already completed Sky Sports Living for Sport's projects and "My role as an Athlete Mentor has enabled me to inspire and motivate young people across the UK to be the best they can be," she said. "The young people I meet are so inspiring for me. It is amazing to see so much enthusiasm and desire to achieve.

"By learning new skills and disciplines that they can apply to all aspects of life, today’s youngsters can really strive to achieve all their aspirations," she added.

Commenting on the visit, Rob Solk, Tadcaster Grammar School's Faculty Leader: Physical Education, said: "It was a fantastic day that will help the students in their school life and beyond. This experience will enable these students to work on a project which they will deliver to the school community in June this year."