Thai boxer combats teaching degree to deliver knock-out career
Whether it’s inspiring primary school pupils in the classroom, coaching kids in Thai Boxing or supporting Roma Orphans in Bulgaria, Rebecca Newby has set the bar high to achieve her dreams of becoming a teacher.
The 21-year-old, who graduated at the Stadium of Light, embraced every opportunity and experience she could during her degree (Primary Education with QTS) from the University of Sunderland, which has led to her landing her first job as a primary school teacher in Hartlepool.
But before she starts her new role teaching Year 3 in September there’s no taking it easy as she’ll be jetting off to Thailand for a month to be put through a rigorous training regime ahead of an amateur Thai Boxing competition back in the UK in August.
“It will be tough but I’m looking forward to the experience,” explained Rebecca, from Peterlee.
“I have been doing Thai Boxing for about four years, encouraged by my partner Ryan O’Donnell, who trains professionally, and together we run weekly classes with Masters of Fitness and Martial Arts for youngsters in Thornley.”
She added: “It’s been quite a journey since I started my degree and has been challenging at times, but I’ve loved every minute of it. Sunderland was also my first choice university and I’m delighted to be graduating before my family and feel very proud.”
What makes Rebecca’s achievement so special is she never expected to get into University – the first in her family to do so, but was always passionate about working with children.