News Record Breaker Back at Collyer’s 11.01.2021

Collyer’s welcomed back former student Guy Watts just before Christmas. Students were fascinated to hear about how Guy and fellow athlete, Andrew Delaney, achieved the first tandem row across the Indian Ocean, aboard the Flying Ferkins, between 19 April and 30 July 2009, to gain a place in the Guinness World Records!

During a chat-show style session, hosted by Deputy Principal Steve Martell, the students asked Guy questions about his record breaking trip, including near misses with sharks, storms, food shortages, dealing with adversity and rowing 3 hours on, 3 hours off for over 3 months! The students were also keen to learn about Guy’s other success stories, including his charity work with Streetscape and other projects he’s supported  to inspire and help others. In addition, Steve and the group were also keen to explore the success Guy has had as Managing Director at Architectural Plants, based in Pulborough.

Steve Martell, who teaches the Employability Programme at the Ofsted Outstanding sixth form college, said: “Guy Watts is a great role-model for our students and it was an honor to welcome him back to the Collyer’s community to support our Employability course. He is a massive inspiration to us all and incredibly modest and down to earth. The students haven’t stopped talking about him!”

The aim of the busy and insightful session was to help students, who are currently studying the highly rated Collyer’s Employability course in their final year at the college, gain an understanding of the world of work and how to plan their futures. Hearing about Guy and Andrew’s two years of fund-raising and planning also gave them an insight into project management and following your dreams.

Steve Martell added: “Over the past 4 years Guy has given up so much time and energy to support me and our students at Collyer’s. I always look for his name whenever the Honors’ List is published, as this man indeed deserves the highest recognition!”

Guy Watts told the group: “This programme is fantastic and I’m delighted to help you with your next steps, and support Steve and Collyer’s on the great work they are doing. I wish this employability programme existed when I was at Collyer’s! You are lucky that Steve and team care so passionately about your futures.

“Look forward to the opportunities and remain motivated and positive in these challenging times, as you can all achieve great things.”

Collyer’s Principal Dan Lodge said: “Massive thanks to Guy for his continued, outstanding support.”