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As young people learn to navigate their new college environment, they soon understand the value of developing certain ‘soft skills’ such as independence. A strong sense of independence and personal growth can be a catalyst in shaping a young person’s future. At Rockley, we consider the whole college experience, and while education is at the forefront, we endeavour to create an environment where individuals can grow in confidence and develop a real sense of independence that will allow them to thrive in a world beyond college.
WHY IS INDEPENDENCE SO IMPORTANT?
Throughout their two years at Rockley College, we provide an environment where students are encouraged to set their own goals and confidently work towards them. This serves as great preparation for both university and the workforce.
Head of Education, Clare commented: “Each transition in a student’s educational journey is an opportunity to develop personally. The progression from GCSEs to A-Levels or secondary school to college is no different. In preparation for a life beyond college, we create an environment where students are actively encouraged to take ownership of their time and set their own goals.
“This doesn’t mean we leave them to it! A large part of the process is allowing them to recognise when to ask for help or advice.”
Being part of a working training centre, away from a ‘school environment’ means that there is more opportunity than ever for students to practice being independent. We also understand the importance of creating a safe space where students feel it’s okay to make mistakes and understand the value of learning from them.
EXAMPLES OF HOW ROCKLEY COLLEGE ENCOURAGES YOUNG PEOPLE TO BE INDEPENDENT.
GETTING TO COLLEGE: Without a dedicated college bus, students are responsible for finding their own way to the Rockley College Campus.
WATERSPORTS PRACTICAL SESSIONS: During their sessions on the water, following an initial induction, students are responsible for rigging their own dinghies and setting up their powerboat engines, ensuring that sessions run on time.
INSTRUCTOR ACADEMY: This is a free optional extra and while students are encouraged to participate in order to gain extra qualifications, the choice to sign up and regularly attend in order to reap the benefits, is entirely theirs.
PLANNING EXPEDITIONS: During their walking practical session, students plan their own routes and are responsible for navigating the whole group across the Purbecks, from A to B.
LEADING MODULES: Students are in charge of running particular modules, including the Sports Coaching and Leadership modules. Making time to effectively plan these sessions to ensure a positive outcome is essential.
WORK EXPERIENCE: During their work experience with Rockley, students are in charge of running specific areas of the Dorset School Games - an event which is held yearly at our Poole Park Lake Centre and involves hundreds of local primary and secondary school students attending on-water sessions. Planning, preparation and the confidence to liaise with staff, their peers, teachers and pupils are key.
TIME MANAGEMENT: Students are in college three or four days of the week and therefore need to plan the rest of their time to ensure that all of their academic goals are met. This needs to be done while also juggling work, relationships and extra-curricular activities. Organising their time is an essential life skill that will hugely benefit an individual beyond college.
WHY ENCOURAGE INDEPENDENCE?
Adapting to college life can be a daunting prospect but with the right support and environment, students learn that developing a strong sense of independence will ensure they are much more likely to succeed in life, both academically and personally.