Boxer returns to old school to inspire Sunderland pupils

Isaac Macleod, a former student at Pennywell’s Academy 360, has returned to the classroom to inspire pupils to work hard and reach for their dreams.

The 20-year-old, who now trains at Manchester, has been keen to go back to school and support the students.

Isaac had a glittering career as a young boxer, winning five English, three British and a European title along with a world silver medal.

As an amateur he won 60 out of the 69 matches he fought and after turning professional last year, he has already won six out of six bouts and is tipped for huge success.

Colin Kinvig, head of Year 9 and 10 at Academy 360 said they are thrilled to have Isaac on board.

He said he organised an assembly telling the pupils there was a live link-up with Isaac, but when the link-up broke down, the students were stunned when the boxer walked in with his awards.

The teacher said Isaac has dyslexia, so didn’t have an easy time of studying at school.

He told the young people during an assembly that they should work hard and do their best if they want to succeed.

Mr Kinvig, said: “The kids were absolutely stunned, their jaws dropped.

“To have someone so close in age to the students becoming a motivational speaker for us is just fantastic. The pupils can really relate to him, a lot of them know him from living in the same community.

“The students were all queuing up for photographs and autographs with him, it was brilliant.”