An exciting invite to Rock Reef, the new attraction on Bournemouth Pier, has resulted in a new and blossoming relationship for the School of Tourism and sportBU. Staff from across a number of disciplines visited the facility and met with Steve Twyman, Operations Manager; and Juan Vasquez, Marketing Executive, to find out more.

RockReef is an all year, all weather adventure activity attraction on Bournemouth Pier, bringing the great outdoors indoors. There are 25 Clip N’ Climb challenges, a pier cave adventure, a high line aerial obstacle course, a vertical drop slide and the awesome “leap of faith” jumping challenge. As Dorothy Fox, Anya Chapman and Nick Rowles watched on with cup of tea in hand (and of course discussing ways to engage); Claire Main, Andrew Callaway and Chris Payne braved the challenges and literally took a leap of faith! Claire Main commented, ‘The challenges are incredible, particularly for someone like myself who is not a keen adrenalin junky! I can see why so many people are already enjoying the attraction and recognise the benefits for a range of visitors from locals to holiday makers to corporate clients looking for an alternative venue for team building. It was a great experience for all and we are looking forward to a long-term relationship with RockReef.’

Plans are now underway to develop student projects; partnership opportunities to encourage fitness as part of sportBU’s remit to encourage activity; and to build on current research in the spirit of knowledge exchange. The team at RockReef are also offering a 10% discount to staff and students when booking at the venue on production of student/staff ID.

By: Claire Main