A former student of Highcliff Secondary School, and with a desire to work within the watersports industry, Megan decided that Rockley College was the perfect place for her to pursue her dreams. Find out what she has settled in our Q&A with her.
How did you find out about our education programme and what made you decide to study with Rockley?
I previously worked with students who attended Rockley and decided it was the path for me.
Did you have any water experience prior to the course?
Yes, I worked at a Watersports hire company and also enjoy surfing in my free time.
Were your parents happy with your choice of course given the sometimes negative perception of Diploma/BTEC courses?
Yes, they felt that it was the right choice for me instead of the usual sixth form route.
What have been the highlights of the course so far?
I have really enjoyed getting to know the other students and teachers, as well as trying out sailing, windsurfing and paddlesports.
What have been the most challenging parts of the course so far?
The coursework can seem challenging, however, I have kept on top of the work and have met all my deadlines.
Your favourite activity on the course so far?
I have really enjoyed sailing as it is something I’ve always wanted to do. The instructors create an enjoyable, safe learning environment which has been great when trying out something new.
Is the course what you expected?
The course has exceeded my expectations. I have enjoyed everything Rockley has to offer and have felt extremely welcomed by all members of staff.
How do you get on with the College teachers?
The teachers at Rockley have been very welcoming and understand the stresses of starting at a new college, reassuring all students along the way.
There’s a lot in the news surrounding mental health in young people. How does this kind of teaching environment help to combat that?
Being outdoors and in a relaxed, enjoyable environment has made it a lot easier getting to know other students whilst settling into a new placement. Being out on the water and learning new skills is a great way for students to unwind and forget about their stresses, making Rockley the perfect balance of outdoor and classroom education.
What are your plans following the course?
By the end of the course, I would love to have received the qualifications needed to work out abroad, then use these skills to work as a Watersports Instructor in both sailing and windsurfing.
A former student at Clayesmore School, Harry struggled to find a course which he was excited about and found school difficult because of his dyslexia. He describes Rockley College and the Level 3 BTEC Sport (Outdoor Adventure) course as a “real game changer” and credits his teachers as “the best I’ve ever had.”
As an outgoing and adventurous individual with dreams of owning his own ski school and teaching outdoor activities, Harry really embraced his time at Rockley College. While a lot of his friends were choosing the A-Level route, it was the encouragement and support of his parents that prompted him to apply for the course - “it was the best decision I’ve ever made. It has made me so happy - I’m a better person and a more confident individual.
“You make so many good connections with the staff and fellow students. The staff really care about you and will always help you with any problems”
His advice to anyone considering Rockley College - “Take every opportunity. The additional course they offer are not normally free so take as many as you can.”
“Try your hardest in your GCSEs and pursue your own path. Coming to Rockley College has been the best thing I have ever done.”
A former student at Twynham School in Christchurch, Sophie opted to study the Level 3 BTEC Sport (Outdoor Adventure) course at Rockley College with the plan of pursuing a career teaching in the outdoor industry.
Like many students, Sophie has not always been a huge fan of exams so this course was perfect for her - the practical and coursework elements combined with the fact that it is equivalent to 3 A-Levels really appealed to her. Self-described as “organised, motivated and determined,” these factors enabled Sophie to get on with her coursework so that she could really focus on her skills on the water. She also credits the Rockley teachers and practical instructors for their “ongoing support” which enabled her to “stay on track” and “achieve such a high standard of work”
“I would definitely recommend this course to other students because it takes the stress away from final exams. If you are considering Rockley College, be prepared to go out on the water in any conditions and be up for giving things a go - you’ll be leading your peers in many sporting sessions. And if you don’t have that confidence now, with the support around you, this will all become second nature!”
With a big dream of becoming a professional rock climber, travelling the world and sharing her passion for the sport, former Bryanston student Katia, found that Rockley College allowed her to pursue her personal passions as well as achieving her academic goals. Now studying Outdoor Adventure Leadership and Management at the University of Worcester, Katia tells us why A-levels were not for her and why choosing the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (Outdoors) with Rockley was a “no brainer!”
Why did you choose this course?
I have always loved outdoor adventures such as climbing, surfing, wakeboarding, snowboarding and coasteering, so it made sense to do this course. I’ve still been able to do all these activities whilst studying and I cannot express enough how much fun these past two academic years have been.
Why study at Rockley College?
A big reason was that it would allow me to train as a rock climber and travel to competitions around the country and Europe. As long as I was handing in my assignments on time and going to every lesson, all the teachers and instructors were nothing but supportive of it. Describe yourself in three words? Short Attention Span! I have always found learning difficult with regards to taking information in and not being able to focus, however I found the hands on learning key to me being able to complete the course with good grades.
How is the teacher support?
We had weekly tutor groups which was a dedicated time where we could ask for help and support. For me, the teachers feedback on the assignments gave me a good indication as to whether I needed to put more time into them.
Who has inspired you at Rockley College?
It didn’t take long before all the practical instructors persuaded me to do the watersports instructor courses and I’m so glad they did as I’m now a fully qualified start windsurf instructor and it’s all thanks to them. Now I have something to fall back on if my rock climbing doesn’t work out!
What would be your advice to a young person starting college?
From the first to the last day, Rockley want the best out of every student and they won’t stop helping and giving you the attention and advice you need to achieve.
What challenges did you face?
Completing the work on time was a challenge at the start, however I found that I never had to put my climbing on hold - instead I became better at time management and balancing everything.
What is your advice for students who are considering coming to Rockley?
It’s an amazing opportunity and remember you are learning from the best - all the practical Instructors are at the top of their game. Rockley has given me the time and support to pursue my dreams and I now feel fully prepared for a future in the outdoor industry.
“Team work is at the heart of Rockley and if there is one thing that I take away from my two years is that doing things in a team is a lot more fun and efficient.”
A former student at Queen Elizabeth School, Amelia Clarke studied the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport with Outdoor Adventure at Rockley College. She is currently studying Physical Education and Sports Coaching at the University of Chichester. In the future, she would like to support others and develop their skills through physical education. She also has aspirations to go travelling and utilise her skills around watersports education.
“I chose this course because I wanted to combine my passion for the outdoors with a full-time education and development programme whilst gaining qualifications. I wanted to experience a practical and theory based course which would push me to achieve my best and set me on the path to establishing myself within the industry. The course has allowed me to develop a range of invaluable life skills and people skills which I hope will make me stand out from the crowd. It has also given me a huge amount of self-confidence.
“My time at Rockley has meant I have met lots of new friends along with the opportunity to learn new skills, particularly around watersports. My advice to anyone would be to just do it! It will be the best decision of your life - you will not regret it. Oh and buy a good waterproof coat!"
Which school did you attend before the BTEC course?
I was at the LeAF Studio School (LeAF Elite Athlete Academy)
Why did you choose the BTEC course?
I was different to a lot of other people that came to Rockley as I had already completed two years of Sixth Form before I joined the course, studying Games Development and Applied Science. After finishing my time at Sixth Form I was incredibly lost , not knowing what I was going to do with my life. I was sold knowing that a Rockley course could lead to a career straight away in something that I felt passionate and excited about.
Were your parents happy with your choice of course given the sometimes negative perception of BTEC courses?
My parents were very happy as they were aware that BTEC’s are still equivalent to A-Levels. They also knew that being outdoors and active whilst still benefitting from self-development would do me the world of good!
What grades/qualifications did you graduate with?
DDM
What were the highlights of the course?
I loved going out to France and working at one of Rockley’s French centres for our period of work experience.
What were the most challenging parts of the course?
As I was two years older than everyone on the course, I already had a part-time job so trying to make deadlines for coursework was really difficult. At first I did struggle juggling work/school/social life but I eventually got better at it as time went on. Time management is key!
What was your favourite activity on the course?
I loved windsurfing.
Was the course what you expected?
No, I thought it was better! I had no idea how much I was going to learn about the outdoor industry and the different skills on and off the water.
Rockley College is not you typical college environment with the beach etc – what are your thoughts on this?
It is one hell of a feeling when you look out of the classroom window and you can see everyone doing their different water activities. It gives you that motivation to finish your coursework so you get the opportunity in the future to do the same. An added bonus is that the view from the beach on a summer’s day never gets old – it’s amazing.
What did you do after you graduated?
I went out to France and worked at all three Rockley centres, as an Instructor teaching school groups and families.
What would you say to someone thinking about enrolling on the course?
Don’t even think about it! It’s the best decision you’ll ever make.
Which school did you attend before the BTEC course?
Queen Elizabeth School.
Why did you choose the BTEC course?
I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after school, I just knew I wanted a change from a normal school environment and didn’t like the look of the exam style of A-levels.
How did you find out about our education programme and what made you decide to study with Rockley?
Rockley was at a Sixth Form Event at my school, I had never heard of them before but it looked fun, and I liked the change from school they offered. At the Open Day I was sold - I couldn’t think of anything better than studying on a beach (it was sunny that day!)
Were your parents happy with your choice of course given the sometimes negative perception of a BTEC courses?
My Mum knew that I wasn’t a fan of exams, and after going to the open day she thought that It would be a great opportunity for me to do something completely different and have fun on the water for two years. To be honest I think she was a bit jealous that something like this wasn't available to her when she was younger!
What grades/qualifications did you graduate with?
I graduated the BTEC with a DDD* and my RYA Dinghy Instructor.
What were the highlights of the course?
Highlights of the course were the day sails/expeditions days as it was a different type of sailing. Also the ski trip and the New Forest Water Park trip.
What were the most challenging parts of the course?
For me was managing my time because I wanted to leave the course fully RYA qualified, whilst also wanting a job and trying to get a good grade in the academic part of the course.
What was your favourite activity on the course?
Definitely the sailing, it was something that I had never done before starting the course and I really enjoyed learning this new skill.
Was the course what you expected?
Yes and no! I knew the course work wouldn’t be easy but I didn’t expect it to be so time consuming. It's not so bad when you just knuckle down and do it. I also new I would love the watersports but didn’t fully appreciate how much training and coaching there would be and how that would develop everyone on the course so much. I also I didn’t expect it to be so cold in the winter months!!!
Rockley college is not a typical college environment with the beach etc – what are your thoughts on this?
I think because Rockley isn’t a normal college environment, it doesn’t feel like a school which was something I really liked. Also, because there were less students than a normal school, it meant that you have a better student teacher relationship as well as knowing everyone in the college really well. This wasn’t something I had at my school. I really enjoyed Rockley - being on the beach was amazing because you can finish a theory lesson and eat an ice cream on the beach, or play beach games during lunch.
What did you do after you graduated?
After I graduated the BTEC course I did a season at Rockley's La Rive centre in France which I really enjoyed - it was great going back to this centre as it was where I did my work experience. I then joined their Apprenticeship programme.
A few words of wisdom - "I would say to get a thick wetsuit and wetsuit boots, and make the most of all the opportunities. If they need help on a day sail for a school group, then go, if there are optional clinics, then come in on your days off and do them. This way you will get the most of the course!"
Clarissa joined Rockley in 2017 to study Level 3 BTEC Sport (Outdoor Adventure) from Avonbourne College. She achieved D*D*D* and gained the following RYA qualifications; RYA Dinghy and Windsurfing Instructor, RYA powerboat Level 2, in-house kayaking and her RYA First Aid certificate.
After graduating Clarissa went on to work a full season with Rockley at their Le Lac Mimizan centre in France. She thoroughly enjoyed this experience which allowed her to grow as an instructor as well as further develop her skills on the water. Following her season in France, Clarissa joined the indoor rock climbing company, Rock Reef on Bournemouth Pier where she has continued to grow and share her passion for the outdoors and teaching youngsters.
Clarissa hopes to go to Plymouth Marjon university this September to study Sports Coaching and Physical Education. Her dream is to become a PE teacher and continue to teach and inspire young people. While studying at university, during the summer, she plans to work abroad teaching windsurfing and sailing.
Rockley has really helped Clarissa improve her confidence while also developing a range of new personal and practical skills. She has also gained long-life friends and found an exciting career path which she wishes to continue in the future.
“The experience has been both hugely challenging and rewarding.“
Connor joined Rockley in 2017 to study the Level 3 BTEC Sport (Outdoor Adventure) course from Winton and Glenmoor School. He achieved a DMM and gained the following qualifications: RYA Dinghy Instructor and RYA Powerboat Level 2.
After leaving Rockley, Connor went on to study Outdoor Adventure Education at Marjon University and is really enjoying learning new skills in Outdoor Adventure and exploring the cliffs in Spain. Alongside university, Connor has taken up a career as a Mariner with the British Army.
“After studying at Rockley, life has been full of amazing opportunities and life experiences. Rockley has helped me gain the confidence I have needed to tackle new things and pursue new opportunities. It has motivated me to gain further qualifications and has also made me want to travel the world more.“
“To future students I would say tackle everything with 100% confidence, even If you are nervous, it could potentially open many doors.”
Charlotte joined Rockley in 2017 to study Level 3 BTEC Sport (Outdoor Adventure) from Queen Elizabeth School. She achieved D*D*D and gained both her RYA Dingy and Windsurf instructor qualifications.
After graduating in May 2019, Charlotte worked a season for Rockley at Le Lac Mimizan. She then went on to do a ski season with Ski Famille in Les Gets working as a child carer. As well as looking after children, taking them to do lots of fun activities such as sledging and ice skating, she also gets to ski every day and is becoming quite the expert! She loves working outdoors in the mountains and is having an awesome time.
Charlotte has transferred many skills she has learnt from her Rockley sixth form course to her seasons and is gaining more confidence working with children and adults. Between skiing in the winters and spending her time on the water in the summer, she is having the time of her life! In the future she has been offered a place at Bath University to study Sport Coaching and Management and plans to continue working for Rockley during her summers, gaining further life-enriching experiences and new qualifications.
Her advice to you: “Throw yourselves in and give everything a go - you won’t regret it.”
How did you hear about the Rockley BTEC course?
I heard about rockley through our next steps evening at school, during year 11. I had Absolutely no idea what my “next steps” were as such. All I knew was that I wanted to see the world and learn something new.
Did you have any watersports experience before starting the course?
Before starting with Rockley I had only sailed and windsurfed a couple of times on a Rockley Adventure residential school trip to France when I was younger. I remember being envious of the instructors out there and knew that I really wanted to give it a go!
After two years on the course I left with a triple distinction along with my RYA Dinghy Instructor and Windsurf Instructor qualifications. After graduating I flew out to France and worked as an RYA activity Instructor at one of Rockley's centres in France.
What has the Rockley BTEC course taught you about yourself?
As a person it’s taught me so much. I’ve grown to be more confident and have hugely developed my skill set and knowledge in a variety of sports. Being part of the BTEC course really showed me that I could succeed in something out of the ordinary. There were tears at times but I really pushed myself and achieved what I never thought was possible.
What kind of challenges did the BTEC course present?
The most challenging parts were getting up and going on the water on the rainy, cold days, yet they seemed to be the days that pushed me even further!
What's next for you?
I hope to work in France for a few years which I hope will allow me to not just grow as a person but also as an instructor. With Rockley's development scheme, I plan to continue gaining qualifications and develop my knowledge further.
Any advice for those considering the course as a 6th form option?
My tip - throw yourself into EVERY opportunity given to you, and work hard, because it’s all so worth it at the end!
What made you choose the BTEC course?
I’ve always loved surfing and I’m a qualified beach life guard which bought me to the course. I didn’t have any qualifications and had never tried sailing before so I thought it might be a good challenge!
What qualifications have you gained from the course?
Since joining the course I have gained my RYA Dinghy Instructor, RYA Windsurfing Instructor, RYA Powerboat Level 2, RYA First Aid, RYA Multi-hull Endorsement and my RYA Powerboat Instructor!
What are your plans for when you finish the course?
After the course I will be working for Ocean Elements in Greece for 6 months teaching windsurfing, sailing, powerboating and paddle boarding. I also have the opportunity to go and work in the Alp’s for the winter.
What have been your best bits about the course?
Not only have I achieved the BTEC level 3 but have had great fun on the course. This course as it has enabled me to try things I never would have before, meet new people and make friends, gain qualifications and employment and have the experience of a life time! My favourite aspect of the course was definitely the practical elements and being outside of the classroom. I will never forget my time here as it is where it all started for me and I would suggest this course for anyone who wants to travel and to be paid for it!
What did you do before joining the BTEC course?
Before joining the course, I did a year of A-Levels, however, I didn’t get on too well with this option. After taking my AS exams and gaining poor results, I dropped out and didn’t really know what to do with my life. I then found out about the Rockley BTEC, and it’s safe to say the course has changed my life.
What qualifications have you gained since joining the course?
Since joining the BTEC I have gained my RYA Dinghy Instructor, and RYA Powerboat Instructor qualifications, as well as my RYA First Aid qualification. I now have an idea of what I want to do in life, which is working on Yachts. I will hopefully be doing this in the forthcoming summer with Sailing Holidays in Corfu.
What do you enjoy most about the course?
I especially love the practical sailing and windsurfing sessions I have participated in. There have been many funny times during the practical sessions including extremely competitive races, jumping off of the pontoon, as well as numerous water and mud fights and lots and lots of laughs.
I will forever be grateful to Rockley for giving me an insight to what I want to do in life, providing lots of fun times and introducing me to new people who are now lifelong friends. The BTEC staff have been great too - always up for a laugh and help you out in any way possible.
What did you do before joining the BTEC course?
Before joining the course I was at Bournemouth and Poole college studying child care and I didn’t really get on with it. My time was running out on deciding what to do for the next year when I heard about the Rockley BTEC course. My family have always been in to watersports so I thought I would give it a go. It's safe to say this was the best decision I could have made and it has changed my life for the better!
What qualifications have you gained since joining the course?
Since joining the course I have gained my RYA Dinghy Instructor, RYA Windsurfing Instructor, RYA Powerboat Level 2, RYA Safety Boat and my RYA First Aid qualifications.
Were there any highlights of the course?
A significant highlight was our first week as a group. We took an activity holiday to one of the Rockley centres out in France and got to try all of the activities we would be learning, in an amazing environment, with the most enthusiastic staff members - it really was a place where friendships were made!
Another highlight of the course would be the work experience opportunity you get. I was lucky enough to be able to go back out to the centre where it all started in France for two months to teach watersports as an assistant instructor to school groups and it was the most challenging and fun experience I could have asked for! And to top it all off we got paid for it too!
Did you find anything particularly challenging about the course?
The coursework can be quite intense, however it became easier as we were able to relate what we were learning practically in activities to the coursework. The staff were also extremely helpful which made my time here so much easier!
What's life been like since leaving Rockley?
Life since leaving Rockley has been all about sailing. I spent a short period working for Neilson out in Greece which I unfortunately have to cut short due to my medical condition, epilepsy. I’ve worked on Poole Quay doing rib tours, taken thrill rides along the Jurassic Coastline and I have sailed from England to France around Spain and Portugal and then down to the Canary Islands where we joined the 2018 ARC+. We then sailed 896 miles to the Cape Verde Islands and 2165 miles to Rodney Bay St. Lucia,
I have finally found what I want to do with my life. The Rockley BTEC really has changed my life and has given me the confidence to chase my dreams! I can’t thank them enough for what they have helped me achieve and my time here will stick with me forever. So far it's been amazing but not without its ups and downs. I just want to say that no matter what struggles you are going through, whether you have a medical condition or not, you can still do anything if you put your mind to it!
Matt’s initial passion for sailing started as a youngster when he was part of the Sea Cadets. He soon became a member of his local sailing club and then signed up to a Rockley two week RYA Dinghy Instructor course. Choosing the BTEC L3 Sport course was then the perfect next move.
Why did you choose the Rockley BTEC Level 3 Sport?
I choose Rockley as I had already previously been downto do my Dinghy Instructor and really enjoyed the friendly atmosphere which had kick started my passion for working in a marine environment. It also gave me the best opportunities to progress quickly with professional andvocational qualifications.
What qualifications did you graduate with?
I graduated with a triple Merit in my Extended Diploma in Sport as well as my RYA Senior Instructor, RYA Multihull and advanced Endorsement, RYA Powerboat Instructor, RYAStart Windsurfing Instructor, RYA Safety Boatand RYA First Aid.
How have you used your qualification?
My qualifications gave me enough UCAS points to start a Merchant Navy Cadetship. This was a Foundation Degree in Maritime Operations and also involved working towards getting my Officer of the Watch Certificate of Competency Unlimited.
What were the best bits of the course?
The best part was very much the balance of the practical and theoretical work. The phrase “work hard, play hard” really applies. The opportunities to do everything from windsurfing to mountain biking develops your personal skills ready for everyday life.
What did you do after the course?
After I graduated from the course, I started my Merchant Navy Cadetship working for P&O Cruises and studying a Foundation Degree in Maritime Operations, this comprises working atsea and doing phases in Merchant Navy Collegeas well.
What is next for you?
Once I have finished my fourth phase of Training at Sea, I will be fully qualified to work on any size ship as a Junior Officer.
What’s it like being part of the Rockley Team?
Being part of the Rockley team, was more like being a part of a big family. Everyone is supported and encouraged to be the best that they can be.
Any tips you would give someone thinking about doing the Rockley BTEC?
Just throw yourself in the deep end and grab every opportunity given to you even if it puts you outside your comfort zone!
Shannon graduated from the BTEC L3 Sport course in 2017 with her RYA instructor qualifications. She then continued to work aseason at Rockley’s Le Lac Mimizan centre in south west France.
How did you first become involved with Rockley?
I first became involved with Rockley by deciding to do the Level 3 BTEC qualification. Being a very outdoors personI knew I didn’t want to sit in a classroom and pursue with my A-levels. The course seemed to offer a good balance between classroom work and being outdoors, and I was absolutely right. It was a fantastic course which gave me so much experience and qualifications.
What qualifications have you gained through Rockley?
Through Rockley I have gained my RYA Windsurf Instructor, RYA Powerboat Level 2, RYA First Aid and Assistant Dinghy Instructor.
What was your first job role after graduating?
I worked at Le Lac Mimizan in France as a Windsurf Instructor which I absolutely loved. Using your qualifications in a real job environment gave me so much confidence. I loved teaching school children especially those who had never experienced watersports before. The smiles on their faces when they knew they could achieve something new was the best kind of job satisfaction.
What would you say to someone looking to get involved in the watersports industry?
Personally I would highly recommend getting involved in the watersports industry. You gain a massive amount of experience and make lifelong memories, especially if you work for Rockley!
What are your future plans?
I have just applied for university to do a BAHons in Physical Education at Southampton Solent. The fact that I didn’t have to sit through two years of A-levels and had the option of choosing the BTEC course as an alternative, is the reason I have been able get this far. I’ve got my fingers crossed that I will be accepted.
How do you feel you’ve changed since doing the course?
The course really pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged me beyond my expectations. As a result I’ve developed massively as an instructor but also as an individual. I’ve come a long way since my first day on the course and am confident in the direction I want to take in my career.
What qualifications did you have before joinong the course?
I joined the course with my RYA Dinghy instructors qualification and my RYA Race coach qualification.
What qualifications did you gain?
Whilst on the course I gained my RYA Safety boat qualification as well as gaining my Start Windsurf Instructor qualification. During the BTEC I was able to achieve a D*DD during my one year stint at the college.
What are your future plans?
I plan to enrol on to a 3 year cadetship in order to gain my Officer of the watch ticket to become an officer in the Merchant Navy.
What were your course highlights?
The course was full of highlights! One of the best moments was my work experience out in France - it gave me a greater sense of independence and also going on the water in a beautiful location with a great team was a lot of fun.
What were the most challenging parts of the course?
The most challenging part of the course for me was making sure that I didn’t miss any work deadlines. To complete all the work in the timeframe meant I needed to be especially organised.
Would you recommend the course?
If you were ever the child to be sat in school and look outside and wander what am I doing sat in here, then this course allows you to learn practically, experience great opportunities and get involved with an industry which has so many doors for the future. I had a great time with a great bunch of people.
We chat to Jessica Hamilton, a 2017 BTEC L3 Sport graduate who achieve a triple distinction.
What school did you go to?
I went to St Edwards CofE School in Dorset
How did you choose the Rockley BTEC Level 3 Sport?
I went to a careers fair where I met and spoke to the Rockley team. I subsequently went to one of their Open Days and realised that this course was exactly what I was looking for.
Did you have any previous sailing or watersports experience?
I had been to Rockley’s Poole Park centre on a Primary School trip when I was younger but had no other sailing or watersports experience before starting the course.
What qualifications did you graduate with?
I graduated with my RYA Dinghy and Windsurf Instructor qualification, RYA Powerboat Level 2 and RYA First Aid.
What have you done since graduating in July 2017?
I spent the rest of the season working in France for Rockley as an Activity Instructor, making full use of my qualifications and enjoying life!
What were the best bits of the course?
What I loved most about the course was the mixture of theory and practical work. The practical was a lot of fun, working as a team and getting to meet so many new people who are now friends for life. I learnt a lot.
Was it different to what you expected?
I was open minded when I joined the course, not really knowing what to expect, but it was very enjoyable and I now have valuable qualifications which I can use worldwide.
What is next for you?
Where would you like to be next year? Next year I hope to gain further experience working for Rockley. They have a great scheme where staff can further their qualifications whilst working for them. As for the long term future, I’m planning to go to Univerusty to study Sports Management and then hope to work further afield in Australia or the Caribbean where I will use all the skills and knowledge I have learnt.
Any tips you would give someone thinking about doing the Rockley BTEC?
Keep an open mind and push yourself. It is both a very enjoyable and rewarding course when you put your mind to it - you really can achieve great things.
How did you choose the Rockley BTEC Level 3 Sport?
I have always been in to outdoor sports and I wanted to do a course that involved that, so I went to the local college. We didn’t get out of the classroom much and I was really unhappy with the course. A friend was already on the Rockley course and suggested I made a call. I got myself an interview and was very quickly enrolled on to the course.
Did you have any previous sailing or watersports experience?
I had been sailing twice a year since I was 12 years old with the Scouts and in 2012 I went on a family holiday to Rockley’s AzuRivage centre in France.
What qualifications did you graduate with?
I graduated the course with my RYA Dinghy and Windsurf Instructor qualification, RYA Powerboat Level 2 and RYA First Aid.
What did you do when you graduated from the course?
I have been working as an Activity Instructor at Rockley Le Lac in my second season with Rockley. This winter I am taking part in the Senior Instructor Development Programme and would like to return to Rockley in 2018 as a Senior Instructor.
What were the best bits of the course?
There are so many ‘best bits’ but for me it was the variety of activities we did, the trips we went on and getting to know so many like-minded people.
Was it different to what you expected?
Yes and no! My idea of the course was that it would be all round sport. I thought it would be getting out and just doing the activities. But it’s much more, it goes into detail about everything you need to know regarding the world of watersports from sports management and fitness, to the rules and regulations behind running a business.
Any tips you would give someone thinking about doing the Rockley BTEC?
If you are in to outdoor sports, watersports or land activities, get out as much as you can! Spend lots of time on the water and keep up with the course work and you’ll get the qualifications you need while having a lot of fun!
When did you first get involved with Rockley?
I started many moons ago! Back in Sept 2011 as a proud BTEC. First hitting France as the best ever work experience that Kat has ever seen all the way back in 2012. Then for some mad reason I came back the next year for a whole season.
What qualifications have you gained through Rockley?
I started here with NOTHING and now I'm EVERYTHING!!! DI, WI, PBI, SI and most importantly a great person! This year I made La Rive GREAT again as Activity Manager and with my minions it was the best year La Rive has ever seen.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
Me in 5 years’ time................ I will be an astronaut! Only kidding too far to travel without toilet breaks. In 5 years’ time I am going to hopefully be teaching within a school maybe not even in the UK.
