Watersports graduate stories

Shared experiences after graduating from UKSA

Our graduates share their experiences, before, during and after their career courses.

A young female with her arms crossed

Tasha Bateman

Before joining us, Tasha had no marine qualifications except her RYA Level 1. “I’m now working at The AHOY! Centre in London as a dinghy instructor. In May I will be flying out to Porto Heli in Greece to work as a dinghy and windsurf instructor with Ocean Elements, where I hope to further my experience.”

  • Before the course: Bar work
  • After the course: Working at Ocean Elements
My advice

“I would tell people just starting out on the same path not to worry if they have no experience in watersports. Nobody at UKSA judges you for not knowing things about the industry – they are there to teach you.”

A young male instructor giving instructions

George Purchon

Before coming to UKSA George Purchon was doing A levels and looking at ways to begin a career without going to university. He began training with us in October 2014, straight after his A levels, and hasn’t looked back.

  • Before the course: Completed A-Levels
  • After the course: UKSA Watersports Instructor
My advice

“I would advise anyone following the same career path as me to stick with it as making mistakes is how we learn. The friendships and connections that you make will pay dividends in the future – the person you meet today could give you a job tomorrow, or vice versa.”

A young man smiling at the camera

Jack Parr

It was important to me to have guaranteed employment at the end of my training because it means I will be able to progress in my career. I’ve learnt loads on the course including RYA Powerboat Level 2, RYA Start Windsurfing, Short Range Radio, and Safe & Fun. What I’ve most enjoyed about the course is everything I’ve learnt – I’ve also made some really good friends.

  • Before the course: Worked in construction
  • After the course: Currently working at Lemnos with Neilson Active Holidays in Greece
My advice

“If I was to give anyone advice about taking the Watersports Instructor Training course, I’d say go for it with your mind open.”