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Former Queen Elizabeth School student, Ollie knew very little about Rockley’s sixth form opportunities until they came to his school in late May last year for an assembly. We catch up with him at Buddens Activity Centre during his work experience, to find out how discovering a new passion for watersports has literally changed the course of his life.
Ollie has always been very sporty - playing rugby and football from a very young age. After giving up football to pursue rugby, a serious injury at the start of the season two years ago, cut short his rugby career, leaving him unable to play contact sport again.
With very few alternatives, Ollie was reluctantly considering A-Levels, however Rockley’s Level 3 Extended Diploma really sparked his interest. Asked whether his parents supported his sixth form choice: “Yes of course. They've always known that I don't like being in a classroom - I’m much better when I’m outside. I’m really enjoying the course, it’s good fun.”
With sport now fully part of his life again, Ollie has really taken to windsurfing and is fully embracing the opportunities at Rockley: “There are no exams which I like, we’re based on the beach, and I love that it’s a small college. Everyone knows everyone - it’s a really friendly environment to be in.”
As for the future, Ollie has already got this figured out! On completion of the course, he plans to join UKSA on the Isle of Wight for their 5-year Super Yacht Cadetship, with the hope of gaining his Officer of the Watch qualification
For anyone who loves sport, a setback like Ollie has experienced, being told that you can no longer play the game you love, can be devastating. His ability to overcome this and find a new focus and passion is fantastic! With a clear pathway going forward, his obvious love for sport and the outdoors, and his positivity and enthusiasm, we believe that Ollie is going to achieve great things!
Discover more about Rockley College and it's Level 3 Extended diploma in Sport and Physical Activity (Outdoors)