Wigan student focuses in on a dream job of snapping Red Arrows in America

Wigan and Leigh College photography student Jade Shaw is set to put her skills to the ultimate test after securing her entry into the Royal Air Force.
Jade ShawJade Shaw
Jade Shaw

The talented Wigan student is set to follow in her father’s footsteps, who is an engineer chief tech at the Wittering base in Peterborough.

Having passed her English, maths and science exams along with fitness and medical tests, she flew through her interview and is set to join up in September for a 12-week training phase at the Halton base, Buckinghamshire.

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“I am extremely excited and I am just so glad I got my exams out of the way. It’s going to be a completely different way of life and an exciting adventure,” said Jade.

Like many students across the country that are being confined to home learning, the former Up Holland High School pupil is taking it in her stride and has even found extra time to work on her personal projects.

Through her Instagram page js.images and Facebook page, Jade Shaw Photography, along with word of mouth, she has received photo shoot bookings for newborn babies and maternity shots and has just booked her first wedding event.

The BTEC level three photography student has improved her skills and knowledge throughout her college course.

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“I have actively learnt how to work a camera properly and learnt different styles which I have been able to incorporate into my own work.

“I have enjoyed working out of the studio and I’ve had the opportunity to work with an array of clients. This course has definitely boosted my confidence.”

Jade is planning to put her knowledge into practice after she completes an 18-month apprenticeship at RAF Cosford and has her dreams set on following and documenting the Red Arrows across America.

She added: “The travel aspect is appealing and because I have an interest in photography I thought that would be a good fit, especially the documentary-style photography which is something I have learnt at college.”

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The photography course at Wigan and Leigh College is situated in the Centre of Excellence in Creative Arts and is taught by expert and national award-winning photographers.

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