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For Jemima, the transition to Rockley College was more than just about changing her learning environment. Her move from North Yorkshire took her away from both family and friends, and yet she wouldn’t want to be anywhere else!
Following her GCSEs, Jemima’s plans consisted of staying on at Harrogate Grammar School to continue with her A-Levels. A week at Rockley, where she was booked onto an RYA Powerboat Level 2 course and the RYA sailing Stages 1 and 2 courses, completely changed her educational path.
Jemima developed a passion for sailing, influenced by her dad, and decided to pursue it seriously. “My dad was lucky enough to have a powerboat and sailing was something he wished he had done. I always wanted to give it a go."
“During a visit to the Southampton Boat Show we stopped by the RYA stand and they recommended Rockley for my powerboat license. I then booked onto two sailing courses which I attended in July. I stayed at Rockley Lodge with a friend and it was incredible – we didn’t want to leave. I could have stayed forever!”
After a conversation with college graduate Ed, Rockley’s Poole Park Manager, Jemima started to reconsider her A-Level plans.
So far, Rockley College is a ‘last minute decision’ she is not regretting. “I love it. I am currently working towards my Assistant Dinghy Instructor and have just been introduced to windsurfing, which I’m really enjoying. I’m hoping to stay on and do the apprenticeship programme after I graduate.
Jemima admits that her parents understandably struggled with her being so far away from home, however, “they soon realised how much I enjoyed the course and how ‘valuable it actually is.’ Plus, I really love the teachers. They are so helpful and smiley and Katie is like my college mum!”
Find out more about Rockley College by clicking below.