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The first term at Rockley College has come to a close, and we are now in our first week of their second term. For our Year 1 students, it has been a whirlwind of learning, adventure, and sunshine. From discovering new skills on the water to finding confidence in the classroom, the past few months have been all about growth, connection, and new experiences.
Jake Williams, our Curriculum Manager, reflects on the start of the year: “It’s been wonderful to have everyone back on site after the summer and to feel the buzz of students returning to Rockley once again. Our first-year students have made an excellent start, settling quickly into the routines of life at Rockley and embracing both the academic and practical elements of their course with genuine enthusiasm. They’ve already demonstrated what a strong group they will become, and it’s been a pleasure to see their confidence grow here week by week.
For Max, the practical days provide the perfect balance to classroom learning. “The practical days are a good way to de-stress, getting loads of sun is great as well,” he says, capturing what so many students love about the Rockley experience: learning doesn’t just happen behind a desk.
Leyton agrees. “I have a great community in my class, it’s a great learning environment,” he says. “The best part of Rockley College is sailing every Wednesday!” That sense of community is echoed across the cohort, a group of Year 1 students who’ve quickly become teammates as well as classmates.
For Arabella, Rhianna, and Barney, the practical side of the course has been the standout highlight. “The best part of being a Rockley student are the practical days for sure,” says Arabella, while Rhianna adds, “I’ve had the opportunity to learn so many new skills, absolutely loving the windsurfing!” Barney agrees: “Windsurfing for sure has been the best part of my first term, learning new skills and meeting new people!”
Beyond the action on the water, students have been impressed by the college’s modern, student-centred approach to learning. “It seems silly,” says Alfie, “but my favourite part of Rockley College is the inclusive working environment. When we’re in silent study, we’re allowed to wear headphones which has been a game changer. Most traditional colleges don’t allow this, it shows Rockley gets that we’re diverse learners.”
That idea of independence and ownership is a big part of Rockley life. “Rockley really puts the ownership of your education and training on us,” explains George. “It means we become accountable for our learning. I’ve been able to sign up for as many sessions as I can and work towards gaining my instructor qualifications.”
For Emma, it’s the chance to follow her passions that makes the biggest difference. “The college is great because I’m not stuck in a classroom all week,” she says. “I’m learning about what I’m actually interested in instead of subjects I don’t want to do.”
Jake Williams notes how quickly the students have adapted: “Returning with a bit more maturity after the summer, the attitude shown towards their own development has been impressive. This year sees the second years taking a bit more ownership of their learning, including leading sessions as part of their units, giving them the perfect opportunity to show just how much they’ve developed in the past year.”
There’s also something special about the atmosphere, that hard-to-define Rockley spirit that makes students feel both supported and independent. “What really stands out for me is the environment,” says Daisy. “It’s hard to put into words, but the people and staff have really created a unique place to learn.”
William agrees. “The teachers trust us to work independently, they treat us like adults which is really refreshing.”
And of course, it doesn’t hurt that the college sits right on the beach. “Surely it’s that we are right on the beach, not sure what other college can say that!” laughs Evie. “It’s such a lovely place to come and learn, it doesn’t feel like school which has been a gamechanger for my education.”
From the Instructor Academy to the opportunity to use the kit outside of lessons, there’s a real sense of freedom here. "My favourite part is the Instructor Academy," says Otto. "The fact that I’m actively working towards getting my Windsurfing Instructor qualification with my mates is so good." Devon adds, "I love that Rockley allows us to use the centre kit outside of lessons, it’s really cool to get on the water in our own time.”
Even the daily routine feels different. “It’s great that we basically have some sort of PE every day,” says Jacob. “The movement during the day really helps with the classroom stuff.”
After just one term, it’s clear that Rockley College isn’t your typical classroom. It’s a community built around shared passion, practical learning, and the sea, where education feels more like an adventure.
As the Year 1 students head into their next term, there’s a buzz of excitement about what’s to come. With more opportunities to get out on the water, build qualifications, and grow in confidence, the Rockley experience is only just beginning.
Applictions are still open for September 2026!