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Why Rockley?
For Angus, choosing Rockley College was a no-brainer.
“Being on a beach and by the sea is where I work at my best. It always felt like a day off, not school or college!”
The environment was key: combining hands-on learning with the outdoors made the experience feel more like a lifestyle than a course.
Favourite Memories? Plenty.
One of Angus’s standout memories? The legendary day sails.
“We’d spend the day sailing around the harbour, enjoying ourselves while still learning. It didn’t feel like work, but we were picking up skills every minute.”
That balance between fun and education is something we’re proud of at Rockley; it sticks with you long after you leave.
Learning That Sticks
So, how did Rockley prepare Angus for the working world, particularly in the marine industry?
“It taught me life skills like communicating with different people, organising groups, and running activities on and off the water. All of that came in handy once I started working at Kemp Sails.”
Even more than the technical skills, it was the confidence and communication that made the biggest difference.
From Student to Sailmaker
After college, Angus stepped into the family business and, in his words:
“It was always the path I saw myself on. I’m very fortunate and wouldn’t change it for the world.”
Rockley helped pave the way, giving him the people skills and practical know-how to contribute straight away. Since joining Kemp Sails, he’s done a bit of everything:
“I worked my way around the loft, learning each step of how a sail is made. These days I focus a lot on finishing, the final touches before a sail heads out the door, and I work closely with customers too, whether that’s face-to-face at boat shows or out on the water.”
Bringing the ‘Rockley Way’ to Work
Rockley isn’t just about training, it’s about attitude. And that’s something Angus has carried with him.
“It’s a chilled-out, laid-back lifestyle, and I’ve tried to bring that into Kemp Sails. I think it makes for a much nicer place to work.”
That relaxed but focused approach is what makes the marine industry so unique and so rewarding to work in.
Why Marine Education Matters
Angus believes places like Rockley play a huge role in shaping the future of the industry.
“It brings new people into the world of water and shows them the lifestyle that comes with it. That’s what keeps them in the industry and helps it grow.”
Angus’s Advice?
“Dive in deep and take every opportunity. Be a sponge, soak up everything you can, because it’ll always pay off in the future.”
Couldn’t have said it better ourselves.
Angus’s journey from Rockley College student to skilled sailmaker at Kemp Sails shows what’s possible when practical learning meets real passion. Whether you dream of a career on the water, in the workshop, or anywhere in between, it all starts with the right environment — and the right support.
At Rockley, we don’t just teach; we shape futures. Our courses offer more than qualifications — they offer confidence, skills for life, and a lifestyle that works for you.