3rd January 2019
For many students from the local South Devon area the College provides a complete pathway of education from A Level right through to University – this none truer then the story of University Centre South Devon (UCSD) alumnus Richard Smith.
Having originally started his journey with South Devon College after enrolling on the Outdoor Activity Leadership course, after two years of hard work and study Richard progressed to University Centre South Devon (UCSD) enrolling on the FdSc Yacht Operations degree course, based at South Devon Marine Academy. Fast-forward a further three years, after graduating Richard has gained an abundance of experience through studying for a BSc Coaching Leadership degree at UCSD.
Asked about his experiences at the South Devon Marine Academy, Richard says, “My time studying Yacht Operations was great. The course certainly helps to enhance your time management skills balancing both academic study and work requirements. Being out on the boats in challenging weather conditions requires a certain level of communication skills – sometimes the wind levels got so bad you couldn’t hear your crew member standing right next to you, it definitely made you a better skipper!
I’ve had lots of great experiences from studying at South Devon Marine Academy but sailing around Britain in my final year tops it. There was a crew of eight of us navigating the challenging coastlines on the College’s 38ft Aspiration Sigma Yacht. We all pulled together and came out of the expedition more complete sailors.
Although the academic part of the course can be challenging, the dedicated team of tutors at the UCSD were always there to support. Going above and beyond what was required, we felt confident we could work on any craft and tackle any obstacles.
After leaving the Marine Academy I started working part time during summer at the nearby Dart Harbour. Impressed by the skills I’d learnt, I’ve recently started a full time River Assistant at the Harbour and plan to forge a long and successful career in the marine sector”.
Richard is just one of the many students who go on to achieve great things during his time with the College.
To find out more about wide variety of courses the College offers from apprenticeships to full-time courses or university degrees, visit our next Open Evening on Thursday 24th January 2019, 4pm-7pm at the Vantage Point Campus, Long Road, Paignton, TQ4 7EJ. Alternatively, you can call our Helpzone team on 08000 380 123 or email [email protected]
For more information about this story please contact Guy Marsden, Marketing & Communications Officer at [email protected] or on 01803 540563.
