Clifton College purchases new rowing crafts thanks to the generosity of alumni

Thanks to the generous donation of OCs, the College has been able to buy five new rowing boats. These new boats are based on a stand-up paddle board and provide a very safe and easy-to-use craft. 

The new crafts will benefit our pupils as well as be used by young people from across Bristol to try rowing and make the sport more accessible. 

The College is pleased to be working with Active Row to achieve this, Active Row has launched a schools partnership programme including Oasis Academy Temple Quarter, Blaise High School, Soundwell Academy, Oasis Academy Temple Quarter, Bedminster Down School, Oasis Academy Brightstowe, Oasis Academy Brislington, Oasis Academy John Williams, Bridge Learning Campus, Orchard School and Bristol City Academy. 

Jeremy Pickles, Old Cliftonian Society Secretary said “Clifton has a strong history of rowing and sailing. In recent years we have been indebted to the generosity of Old Cliftonians who  (reflecting on happy experiences during their time at Clifton) have donated funds to acquire new rowing and sailing boats, a rib and outboard and Rowsup starter craft to encourage today’s pupils to take up the sport. 

“The College has also acquired RYA accreditation enabling the training of pupils up to Powerboat level 2 certification. This invaluable support ensures the future of College water sports and enables us to offer these opportunities to other schools and clubs in the Bristol area.”

Mr Beever, who coaches rowing at the College said “I’m incredibly grateful to the Old Cliftonians for their generosity that has allowed us to expand our fleet. These craft not only will enable years 7 and 8 to join the rowing program at the College, but will also allow us to provide more opportunities for pupils and young people across Bristol to get a taste for rowing, and the pleasure of being out on the water as part of a team”. 

The College is pleased to be able to offer this provision to young people in the wider Bristol community, over the last few years we have engaged in a number of outreach activities including with the Bristol Education Partnership.