11 September 2026
As Rockley celebrates 50 years of inspiring adventure and outdoor learning, it is also marking an incredible fundraising achievement after raising £14,00 for Julia’s House Children’s Hospice at its 50th Anniversary Gala.
Held on Saturday 4 July at The Lighthouse, Poole, the black-tie celebration brought together current and former staff, instructors, alumni, partners, suppliers, friends and family who have all played a part in Rockley’s journey over the past five decades.
The evening reflected on Rockley’s rich history, from its beginnings in 1976 to becoming one of the UK’s leading providers of outdoor education, watersports and adventure experiences. Guests enjoyed an evening of fine dining, live entertainment and storytelling, while raising vital funds for Julia’s House through a charity auction and raffle.
The total of £14,000 will support Julia’s House Children’s Hospice, a charity that provides practical and emotional support to families caring for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions across Dorset and Wiltshire.
We were delighted to join Rockley Watersports for their 50th anniversary celebrations at the Lighthouse in Poole. As a family-run business, Rockley have always made us feel part of the family and they have been fantastic supporters of Julia’s House for over 12 years. From fundraising and community support, to providing incredible days out, weekends away and residentials for our siblings, they always go the extra mile to create unforgettable experiences. The generosity at their celebrations was phenomenal, we would like to say a huge thank you to all the businesses who donated so very kindly to the raffle and to all the guests for purchasing raffle tickets and helping to raise a superb amount on the night. The support given will help to create many more magical moments and precious memories. We simply cannot do what we do without such fantastic support from local businesses like Rockley, and we wish all the team at Rockley a Happy 50th anniversary.
Caroline Attreed Corporate Fundraiser at Julia’s HouseAs a longstanding supporter of Julia’s House, the charity holds a very special place in the hearts of everyone at Rockley.
One of the things I’m most proud of from our 50th Anniversary celebrations wasn’t just about bringing together so many people who have been part of Rockley’s journey, but the generosity everyone showed in supporting Julia’s House Children’s Hospice. We’ve had a longstanding relationship with the charity and know what an incredible difference they make to families across our local community. To raise £14,000 on such a special evening was fantastic, and I’d like to thank everyone who contributed. It was a fitting way to celebrate our past while helping Julia’s House continue its incredible work.
Pip Woods Managing Director at Rockley
The funds raised will help Julia’s House continue delivering its specialist care and support to local families when they need it most, making the evening not only a celebration of Rockley’s legacy but also a meaningful investment in the local community.
The anniversary celebration recognised the thousands of people who have shaped Rockley over the last 50 years, from staff and instructors to students, schools, families and partners. It was an opportunity to celebrate the organisation’s heritage while looking ahead to its future, continuing its mission to inspire confidence, resilience and a lifelong love of the outdoors.
Lis and I had a wonderful evening welcoming and catching up with old friends, colleagues, customers and supporters who have all been part of Rockley’s journey over the past 50 years. What stood out most was the incredible sense of camaraderie between generations, with people from every chapter of our history coming together to celebrate this milestone. It was a celebration of our family business, the community that surrounds it, and the people who have made the last five decades so memorable. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make it a night we will never forget.
Peter Gordon Owner at Rockley