A WORLD Cup winner visited a primary school to talk about his journey to the top.

Rob Hawkins played a huge role in guiding England to glory in last year's rugby league wheelchair competition.

On Monday, Hawkins talked to the children at Shelf Junior and Infant school in an assembly about living with a disability and how it felt to win a world cup.

Headteacher Jill Elam said: "Pupils had been learning about growth mindset in school and Rob was their inspirational visitor.

"Back in November, we had watched footage of this inclusive sport in assembly and the children were really interested in it.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Hawkins with the pupilsHawkins with the pupils (Image: UGC)

"I contacted some of the England players through our school's social media platform and they replied by offering to come into the school and talk to the children. 

"Rob's visit coincided with our 'Inclusive Sports' week.

"Children have been learning about new, inclusive sports and having a go at New Age Kurling in their PE lessons.

"On Friday, children will wear 'their own sports' clothes for the day."

20-year-old Hawkins also helped Halifax win the Super League title in 2022, starring in the Grand Final as they upset favourites Leeds Rhinos.

All the children at the school enjoyed his company on the day.

Belle Leeming said: "I'm inspired by Rob's determination because he is in a wheelchair but that hasn't stopped him from doing his favourite sport."

Grayson Holmes added: "I was so excited to meet Rob because we watched the video of him playing rugby and it was cool. I liked getting his autograph."

"I'm impressed that Rob has won so many trophies at such a young age. He must have a good growth mindset," said Reuben Stevens.

Flo Dunnachie added: "Rob Hawkins gave a good inspirational speech to us and we know that you have to keep doing your best even if it is hard for you."

Chloe Smith, PE and School Sports Leader, said: "At Shelf school, we have been working on developing growth mindsets and becoming resilient.

"Rob is a great example of this, and all the children took in what he was saying as he answered their carefully thought questions.

"We were all really excited to have a World Cup winner in our school and Rob's talk fits really well with our inclusive sports week, getting everyone involved in as much accessible sport as possible."