Rydal Penrhos recently had the pleasure of welcoming rally driver, mechanic, presenter and marketing manager Jade Paveley to campus for the inaugural edition of our new ‘Lunch With…’ events.
Rydal Penrhos recognizes the importance of providing high-quality super-curricular opportunities that takes into account the local and national context. By introducing pupils and parents to local heroes who have a wealth of knowledge, experience, and talent, the school hopes to inspire and equip young people as they embark on their career paths.
It was with this in mind that the ‘Lunch With…’ events were launched. Designed to introduce pupils to inspiring individuals from the local community, it is hoped that this regular series of events will strengthen the school’s already outstanding connection to its North Wales locale.
Jade Paveley proved the perfect guest for our inaugural event, captivating pupils and staff with her tales of life in motorsports and the motor industry.
Jade grew up in the Llandudno area and began her competitive motorsports career at the age of 15, taking on some of the brightest karting prospects in the country. Just two years later, she became the youngest driver to compete in a UK 24-hour race when she raced at the legendary Silverstone circuit.
At 19, Jade followed in the footsteps of her father David and began her rallying career. Behind the wheel of one of rallying’s most iconic cars – the Subaru Impreza – Jade made an immediate impact. In her first full season in the Welsh Tarmac Championship in 2018, she finished first in the junior championship, third overall and won the prestigious King of Epynt Championship.
Jade has also been chosen to drive for a number of automotive giants – including Jaguar and Kia – and has driven in the British Cross County Championships, or BXCC, winning the T2 Class. When not behind the wheel herself, Jade has made a name for herself as an accomplished presenter and analyst, bringing her expertise to coverage of various WRC rallies.
Jade’s visit to Rydal Penrhos was a resounding success. She explained some of the trade secrets of professional racing and rally drivers, and recalled her rise through the motorsport ranks. Her talk was full of fascinating insights, from the value she has found in a social media presence to the reasons behind her worst crash. Jade’s presentation featured broad life lessons and revealed some of the transferable skill involved in motorsports.
Pupils were thoroughly appreciative of the engaging presentation and the delicious lunch, prepared by Catering Manager Jonathan Stubbs’ top team. Many pupils took the time to speak to Jade, asking her many very good questions. In addition, several pupils tried on Jade’s rally helmet, which was part of the rallying gear she brought with her, alongside her racing suit, racing boots and other fire-proof garments.
Overall, Jade’s visit was an excellent start to the ‘Lunch With…’ series, which we look forward to continuing in Trinity Term. Rydal Penrhos would like to express its thanks to Jade for visiting and sharing her fascinating insights of life behind the wheel.
