Established in 1976 and employing more than 120 staff in the UK and France, Rockley has not previously taken on an apprentice but following a British Marine Federation (BMF) networking event the decision was made to get involved. During National Apprenticeship Week Sam Holland, 17, joined the Rockley Team at the main UK centre, Rockley Point.
Pip Woods, Rockley Managing Director commented on the new Apprenticeship: “I had previously not felt Rockley could give the right opportunities for an apprentice, but after attending the BMF event I came away having learnt much more along with the information needed to get started. I can see the value and importance of apprentices for the UK marine industry and with the help of the government and BMF we are in a better place to participate.”
Pip added, “Sam and his family all work and live in Poole and I am happy that we are able to support him. During the 12 months he is with us he will be given the opportunity to not only develop his own personal sailing skills but to learn the business and how the sailing school runs. We will work to provide him with the tools and experience for him to grow his watersports career.”
Reflecting on his new role Sam said: “I have always loved the water and from sailing with my school at Poole Park I wanted to do more. All of the Rockley instructors have been nice and welcoming and I am really hoping to improve my sailing skills and to learn how to teach.”
Over 350 instructors are trained each year at Rockley Academy which provides RYA accredited instructor training including Dinghy, Multi-Hull, Windsurfing and Powerboat instructor courses. This includes the unique watersports-based BTEC Level 3 Sport (Outdoor Adventure) course that is now in its third year.