Feature: Championing Wellbeing: Harriet’s Journey from LEH to National Leadership in Rowing

When Harriet first picked up an oar at Lady Eleanor Holles, she could not have imagined how profoundly the sport, and the values she learned along the way, would shape her future. Today, as a student at Newcastle University she is not only excelling in rowing but also championing welfare, wellbeing and inclusion within British Rowing itself. 

“Harriet is a truly committed and inspirational athlete who played a key role in the LEH Eight that became National Champions in 2021,” says Abby Johnston, Class of 2007, and LEH Director of Rowing. “It was a privilege to coach her during her time at school and to watch her develop into such an outstanding rower. Seeing her continue her journey at Newcastle University, championing wellbeing and inclusion after giving so much back to the boat club during her gap year at LEH, makes everyone at LEHBC incredibly proud.” 

Harriet’s most recent achievement has been the creation of a new British Rowing award that celebrates initiatives promoting welfare, wellbeing and inclusion. The inspiration came while attending the British Rowing Awards last year, where her team, the Newcastle women’s first eight, was named University Crew of the Year. 

“I was inspired by how other clubs were working to improve sustainability,” Harriet explains. “It made me realise that what we were doing around wellbeing and inclusion could also inspire others.” 

Both LEH and Newcastle University Boat Club (NUBC) have long prioritised athlete welfare, but Harriet soon discovered that not all clubs share this culture. “Having spoken to athletes from other clubs, I realised how lucky I have been. It means a lot to share what we have learned and to encourage others to make wellbeing a genuine priority.” 

Harriet credits much of her passion for inclusion and wellbeing to her time at LEH. “LEH was where I learned to row and where I developed my passion for teamwork and inclusion,” she says. “The coaches created such an open environment. We even had sports psychology sessions with external speakers, such as Stephen Fenney, which really broadened our understanding.” 

Beyond sport, Harriet remembers the school’s culture of kindness and care. “Teachers genuinely cared about every student’s mental health and wellbeing. That attitude has stayed with me ever since.” 

As a former student of an all-girls school, Harriet also recognises how empowering that environment was. “I never once felt that girls did not have the same opportunities as boys, which is a privilege not everyone has. That has inspired me to promote inclusion and equality in sport today.” 

When asked about her favourite memory from LEH, Harriet smiles. “Winning the National Schools’ Championship 8+ title in 2021,” she says without hesitation. “After two long lockdowns and endless solo training sessions, that win was the ultimate reward. It felt like our turn to make the school proud.” 

For current LEH students who want to make a difference, Harriet’s message is clear. “Just go for it! Do your research, reach out to people and do not be afraid to follow up, even if it feels as though you are being persistent. When you find the right people, you will see how much they care about helping you make your ideas happen.” 

Harriet also encourages students to make the most of all that our school has to offer. “LEH was the starting place of all my passions: rowing, medicine and inclusion. It gave me the confidence to explore, to try new things and to keep learning. I would tell every student to make the most of that environment. You never know where it might take you.” 

Harriet’s journey from a passionate school rower to a national advocate for wellbeing is a powerful reminder of what the LEH community nurtures: confidence, compassion and courage. Her story continues to inspire, both on the water and far beyond it. 

“That attitude of openness and care that I learned at LEH is something I carry with me every day,” she reflects. “It is what drives me to make rowing a sport where everyone feels supported and included.”