Which school did you come from?
Queen Elizabeth School in Dorset
How did you hear of the Rockley BTEC course?
I already knew of Rockley through doing my RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification here
Did you consider another BTEC or A-Levels?
Yes, I looked in to Product Design and Photography and Food and Nutrition, at Queen Elizabeth and Exeter college but I preferred the BTEC course that Rockley offered because of the sailing and windsurfing opportunities.
Why did you decide to do this particular course?
I have been sailing ever since I was four years old and have always wanted to puruse a career in Outdoor Watersports industry. This course seemed like the best option.
Is the course what you expected?
The course is amazing and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys the outdoors. I expected the outdoor activities to be more physically demanding and challenging so this was no surprise however the coursework is a lot more than I expected. I am used to doing plenty of coursework after my GCSEs so I feel prepared for the challenge.
Had you done any water activities / qualifications prior to doing the course?
I did my RYA dinghy Instructor course in preparation for this course and a lot of paddle sports but I have never been coached before for windsurfing.
How have you enjoyed the course so far - what have been the best bits?
A massive highlight of this course was definitely the France trip and as a result I am hugely looking forward to the work experience at the end of year 1. I have also loved all the watersports sessions as they have all been exhilarating! The instructors have kept pushing me and as a result, I have really improved.
What have been the most challenging parts of the course so far?
The coursework has but the teachers have been very helpful giving out tips and advise whenever we need it.
Your Practical Instructors are all ex-BTEC students - do you think is this beneficial in any way?
This is great for me because they have been in our shoes and know more about our situation and the level we are performing at. They are also a lot easier to relate to!
Your first week was spent out in France - what was this like
This week was incredibly helpful as it gave us all an opportunity to get to know eachother without stress or pressure, I believe that all colleges show do this! On top of this being an amazing experience, it allowed me to develop great relationships in a short amount of time.
Do you know what your plans are after the course?
I am hoping to work towards my RYA senior Instructor qualification and work in France for Rockley as a sailing, windsurfing, powerboating and kayaking instructor.