Nigel Vardy Speaker | Science & Adventure

Nigel Vardy

Record Breaking Frostbitten Mountaineer, Author and Speaker

Nigel is an international mountaineer who went through a life changing experience high on the slopes of Mt McKinley in Alaska. During a daring climb, a severe storm almost froze Nigel to death. His rescue has gone down in mountain legend, but he lost his fingers, toes and nose to frostbite. For many, this would have been the end of their adventuring career, but Nigel has used the experience to catapult himself into far reaching expeditions to some of the worlds most remote mountain ranges. Since his accident he has climbed and explored in the Arctic, Asia and Africa.

His drive and motivation is almost limitless. He shares his passion for personal improvement and triumphing over adversity in every keynote his gives. He is an engaging speaker both on and off stage, inspiring audiences and challenging them to consider their lives and futures.

Nigel has also completed a British first, by climbing the highest peaks on the world’s seven largest islands.

Writing has helped his recovery and proved a source of inspiration for many people. He has written two books about his expeditions: ‘Once Bitten’ and ‘Seven Peaks - Seven Islands.’ He has filmed with the BBC, ITV and Discovery channel, and been interviewed on International Radio Stations and regularly writes for the media.

Testimonials from Teachers

"Nigel took us on a journey, both physical and emotional, that was an example to us all of the wonder and power of the human spirit."

– Don Brooks, Grantham College

"Nigel was able to relate perfectly to the abilities and interests of our pupils. He had an empathy and understanding of the range of needs and was able to draw on personal experiences to promote the positive ethos and achievement of the pupils as a result. They gained so much from his visit, but in particular, their ability to work in teams and make decisions. He inspired our pupils in so many ways."

– Helen Jackson, 11-19 co-ordinator of Teaching and Learning Royal School for the Deaf

"Selecting speakers for a demanding Sixth Form audience can be a tricky process and successful events are sometimes difficult to achieve. No such worries with Nigel. His down to earth straightforward approach to extraordinary events was full of humour, drama and ultimately a tribute to human endeavour. Our Sixth Formers left the talk buzzing - always the acid test!"

– David Tidy, Trent College

"Nigel's preparation and communication skills grabbed our student’s attention. Nigel presented his adventures and life threatening experiences in an unassuming way that left students motivated and inspired. His advice to "get involved, take a chance, make it happen, don't just think about it, do it" left students reflecting on their own lives and goals for the future. One student said 'He was really inspirational and made me think of my own life and not to take things for granted.'"

– Tina Barraclough, Head of Geography, Rushcliffe School

"On 11th September, Nigel visited Repton to speak with the students about his adventures and focused specifically on having courage to take risks and how best to mitigate against risks in the field. It was a truly inspiring lecture and Nigel's energy and passion for the subject captivated the audience and students hung on every word. I would wholeheartedly recommend Nigel and very much look forward to welcoming him back in the future."

– Mr R G De Rosa, Head of Geography, Repton School

"Nigel Vardy captured the group’s imagination with his exploration/mountaineering endeavours and life story."

– Chris McAllister, Deputy Head, Mount St Mary's School