“We see the differences our teachers have on their pupils lives by giving them the opportunity to make a difference in their own lives. Not only from just taking them on trips with Rockley but through the possibilities that they give them when doing so.
“We can talk about this from many angles but considering ‘change’, whether this be lifestyle or fitness. Motivation and desire are key in all areas of development and looking up to people that are making a positive impact on ‘change’ can be vital in schools. Enthusiastic teachers can really make pupils lives more active. “
Jack also looks at the long-term effects that sport and particularly the Rockley Adventure activity trips can have on school pupils; “Having been spurred on to go on a Rockley trip whilst at school by one of his teachers, James has since found a passion for watersports. This passion has led to him rising through the ranks in France and becoming an Activities Manager and working at Rockley’s head office inspiring the latest group of pupils to go to France with their schools.”
Jonny Owen, PR Teacher at Ringwood School describes to us how powerful it can be for young people to participate in watersports for the first time;
“It is the confidence they develop and life skills they learn. You can’t put a cap on a student’s confidence and how that will translate when they come back into school.
“For some students, their limits are nowhere near touched within the four walls of a classroom. It’s not until they are faced with sailing or white water rafting where they realise what they can achieve.”
The 18th national conference starts tomorrow (1 March, 2017) at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry and has a conference theme of; Inspiring and leading change, elevating young people’s aspirations, achievements and wellbeing and how it takes exceptional leadership. Working together to be future ready.