• Veloce Racing driver goes ‘back to school’ to inspire the next generation
• 22-year-old discusses topics including education, sustainability and gender equality
• Virtual visit to mark United Nations’ International Day of Education
• Zoom class comes at an unprecedented time for educational norms

In celebration of the third annual United Nations International Day of Education, Veloce Racing Extreme E driver Jamie Chadwick went ‘back to school’ today (25 January) to talk to students at Harris Academy Battersea. Chadwick engaged with the students at length around her career and the new challenge she faces in the pioneering all-electric off-road series.

As a consequence of COVID-19, 1.5 billion young people have been impacted by school closures across 184 countries globally. In the UK, this has led to the vast majority of students currently being home-schooled. Now, more than ever, educational establishments are looking for exciting and inspirational activities to ensure children and teenagers remain focussed and engaged in their lessons.

With support from Girls on Track UK – a Motorsport UK initiative supporting the participation of women in motorsport – 22-year-old Williams F1 Development driver Chadwick was able to engage with over 300 Harris Academy Battersea students for a truly unique educational experience via video call.

As the inaugural W Series Champion and one of nine female drivers in Extreme E, Jamie was perfectly-placed to discuss topical subjects such as careers, gender equality, sustainability and climate change with students, prompting a great deal of enthusiastic discussion.

Jamie Chadwick, Driver, Veloce Racing, said: 

“It was fun being able to talk to students who were so inquisitive about what I do and the series I race in. I really enjoyed answering their questions and I have to say a big ‘thank you’ to Girls on Track for helping to make this possible!

“I think it’s so important to inspire the next generation regarding some of the biggest subjects in today’s world like education, gender equality and climate change, especially during such difficult times for all of us. I hope it gets them all thinking about these issues and ways in which we can make a difference.”

Mr Carr, Vice Principal, Harris Academy Battersea, added: 

“The students had a fantastic time hearing about Jamie’s experience, her passion for her sport and career and her insight into her exciting new challenge with Veloce Racing and Extreme E. She is clearly a rising star in the sport and a great role model for young people, and she was very knowledgeable and really grabbed their attention from the word ‘go’.

“I think I speak for everyone when I say we thoroughly enjoyed Jamie’s virtual visit today and would love to welcome her back when she is able to visit the school in person!”

Sue Sanders, Director of Learning and Development, Motorsport UK commented: 

“Girls on Track UK is delighted to have been instrumental in Jamie’s virtual visit today at the Harris Academy.  With an already impressive list of achievements to her name, as well as her role as a Girls on Track UK ambassador, Jamie is undoubtedly a brilliant and motivational role model for all young people.

“Jamie’s imminent debut racing for Veloce in Extreme E certainly made for enthusiastic and topical conversation with the pupils, particularly around equality and sustainability within motorsport, which was really inspiring to see.

“A huge thank you to Harris Academy, to Jamie and to Veloce for making this happen today – and  we really look forward to a Girls on Track UK event in-person at the school just as soon as restrictions are lifted.”