Barnsley College Learning for Living and Work student, Ellie Hardy and her gymnastics partner, Jessica Wilson, have secured the gold position and have been crowned British Champions in the Grade 4 Disability Acrobatic Gymnastics competition.

The competition held at Fenton Manor Sports complex in Stoke-on-Trent, saw both girls compete against regional qualifiers from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. 

Ellie and Jess have been building momentum, having achieved a gold medal at the 2025 Leeds Acro Open and proudly representing Yorkshire at the Inter Regional Championships for Acrobatic Gymnastics in England, showcasing their skills and dedication.
On her triumph, Ellie said: “I love what I do, and I am extremely proud of myself. It feels amazing to win. I have been working very hard by learning new routines and being resilient throughout training. I am still practising as I prepare for my next competition.”

Ellie’s mum, Pippa Goddard added: “I am unbelievably proud of Ellie. She is testament to what can be accomplished with determination and perseverance, especially when supported by an understanding team of coaches and fellow gymnasts. They see beyond her difficulties, believe in her abilities, and offer understanding and friendship.
“Gymnastics has really opened the world up to Ellie, and after not even being able to tolerate walking round a supermarket a few years ago without becoming massively overwhelmed; it is wonderful to see her not only chasing but achieving her dreams, whilst being a role model to other young gymnasts and inspiring them to work hard and showing them what that they too could achieve.
“I am in awe of her positive attitude, her remarkable ability to never give up and her drive to keep overcoming obstacles while remaining incredibly humble and thankful to the team around her. She is a truly incredible young lady, and I am very excited to see where her gymnastics journey takes her next.”

Head of Barnsley College’s Learning for Living and Work department, Nicola Thomson-Dewey commented: “Ellie continues to amaze us with her talent and skills. Her tutors and peers are in awe of her accomplishments. She proves that anything is possible, and we cannot wait to see what she does next.”

To find out more about the Learning for Living and Work courses Barnsley College offer, visit www.barnsley.ac.uk/lflw, email info@barnsley.c.uk or call 01226 216 123.