Jeffrey Hughes RVM

Alumni Spotlight: Jeffrey Hughes RVM

Few people can say they were part of the very first intake of students at Ysgol Bryn Alyn, but Jeffrey Hughes RVM can.

Born and raised in Gwersyllt, Jeffrey attended Gwersyllt Church School before becoming one of the first pupils to move to the newly opened Ysgol Bryn Alyn in 1958. He recalls being taught by Mr Les Foulkes, who had also been his teacher at primary school and later became Deputy Headteacher. During his short time at Bryn Alyn, Jeffrey became a Prefect, but like many young people of the time, he left school at the age of fifteen with no formal qualifications.

However, Jeffrey was determined to make something of his life.

His dream was to join the Royal Navy, but family expectations meant that ambition had to wait. After spending three years working in Wrexham, Jeffrey walked into the Royal Navy recruitment office on his eighteenth birthday and began a remarkable career that would span more than two decades and take him around the world.

Initially joining as a Seaman Gunner, Jeffrey later transferred to become a Chef, combining his naval service with a passion for cooking. Over the years, he served on warships, undertook operational deployments across the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian Ocean and Antarctic, and travelled to hundreds of ports across every continent.

The highlight of his naval career came when he was selected to serve aboard Her Majesty's Royal Yacht Britannia.

Jeffrey spent fifteen years on the Royal Yacht, rising through the ranks from Leading Cook to Chief Petty Officer Cook. During this time, he worked alongside Royal chefs when members of the Royal Family were on board and had the opportunity to visit some of the most extraordinary places in the world. His service also saw him work at Buckingham Palace and, in 1983, he was awarded the Royal Victorian Medal (RVM) in the Queen's Birthday Honours, receiving the honour from Her Majesty The Queen at Buckingham Palace.

Following his retirement from the Royal Navy in 1985, Jeffrey continued his successful career in catering and hospitality. He worked as Kitchen Manager at Wrexham Maelor Hospital before becoming Head Chef at York St John College. He later returned to North Wales and spent eleven years with Gardner Merchant before retiring.

Today, Jeffrey remains active in his community as Chairman of the Royal Naval Association Wrexham.

Jeffrey's Advice to Current Students

"Learn as much as you can and gain as many qualifications as possible. But if, like me, academics are not your strongest area, never underestimate the value of determination, hard work, common sense and a positive attitude. Life will have its ups and downs, but these qualities will help you achieve your goals and dreams just as they helped me achieve mine."

Jeffrey's story is a remarkable example of resilience, ambition and making the most of every opportunity. From one of the first students through the doors of Ysgol Bryn Alyn to receiving a Royal honour and travelling the world, his journey demonstrates that success comes in many forms and that determination can take you further than you ever imagined.

We are incredibly proud to call Jeffrey one of our alumni and thank him for sharing his inspiring story with the next generation of YBA students.

Dream. Reach. Achieve.