31 July 2026

Rockley is bringing its 50th anniversary celebrations to the Southampton International Boat Show this September, marking half a century of contribution to UK watersports, outdoor education and sailing.

Founded in 1976 by the Gordon family and taken over by Lis Gordon and Peter Gordon in 1993, Rockley has grown into a leading provider of RYA training, residential activity programmes and vocational outdoor education.

For five decades, Rockley has worked alongside industry partners, national governing bodies and education providers to increase participation in watersports and outdoor learning while creating clear pathways into the industry. Its contribution spans instructor training, the delivery of vocational qualifications, and the integration of outdoor education into formal education programmes.

Rockley’s senior staff also serve on industry and advisory boards, contributing to strategic development, the promotion of best practice and initiatives that support long-term participation and growth across the watersports and outdoor education sectors.

Commenting ahead of the Southampton International Boat Show,

Reaching our 50th anniversary is a significant milestone for everyone connected to Rockley, and the Southampton International Boat Show is the perfect place to celebrate, surrounded by the marine community that has supported us over the years. From a small sailing school on the shores of Poole Harbour to becoming an internationally respected outdoor education provider, our purpose has remained the same: to give people the confidence, skills and opportunities to thrive through watersports and outdoor education. We are as excited about the future as we are proud of everything we have achieved over the past five decades.

Jack Clark Commercial Director at Rockley

 

Rockley will be exhibiting at the Southampton International Boat Show in Mayflower Park from 18–27 September 2026, sharing stories from its 50-year history and showcasing its RYA training, residential programmes, and vocational pathways.

As Rockley enters its sixth decade, it remains committed to strengthening industry partnerships and widening access to watersports while supporting the industry it has helped shape for the past 50 years.