FORMER skydiver Nigel Rogoff suffered life-threatening injuries when his parachute jump above a football stadium with thousands of spectators went wrong. 

Now the ex-serviceman and amputee is inspiring schoolchildren, completing a SkillForce educational programme in Wales to develop self-confidence and resilience, and the skills to succeed in education, life and work.

The 56-year-old former RAF Flight Sergeant has just been appointed as a SkillForce ambassador and took part in his first mission for the charity this week, mentoring a group of pupils, aged 14 and 15, at Caldicot School. 

“It’s a privilege to become a SkillForce ambassador and support young people to develop character, self confidence and resilience by sharing my life lessons,” said Nigel, who had to have his leg amputated after the near fatal parachute jump in 1998.

“My main message is - life can be very challenging but if you accept there will be setbacks, and learn how to cope with and overcome them, you will succeed.”

SkillForce is a national charity that draws on the skills of predominantly ex-service personnel to run educational programmes with 200 schools in Wales, England and Scotland. His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge is the charity’s Royal Patron.

Ben Slade, Chief Executive at SkillForce, said: “Our work in schools transforms lives by helping children and young people build character, self confidence and resilience, and get the skills they need for their next steps in education, work or training. Nigel is a remarkable role model who reflects our ethos of drawing on the skills of predominantly ex-service personnel to inspire young people to succeed. We are thrilled that he is supporting SkillForce.”

Later this year, Nigel and his colleagues will be taking part in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, a 3,000 mile ocean rowing race from La Gomera in the Canaries to Antigua. Being the first all amputee Row2Recovery team, they are representing, supporting and raising funds for injured service personnel.  

He added: “I suffered life changing injuries and the loss of a career however I ended up meeting my wife as a result, and having a family. Some people would say that is down to luck. I don’t think so. I didn’t want to give up on life just because my circumstances dramatically changed. I was determined to find a new positive direction which has also seen me take part in some amazing sporting adventures.”

The group of Caldicot School pupils who attended the mentoring event are all taking part in the SkillForce educational programme called Onto Next Steps for 11 to 19-year-olds. It runs during school time over two academic years.

The programme focuses on character, self-confidence and resilience, and aims to help young people stay engaged in their studies, and develop the teamwork and problem solving skills to help them get on in education, work and life. The activities include teamwork challenges and community projects. 

Mark Sexton, Deputy Headteacher at Caldicot School, said: “Caldicot School is very proud to be linked with SkillForce and to share in its values.  

“Having already served our country, SkillForce staff are now engaged in positively influencing and transforming the lives of our young people as they prepare for the opportunities and challenges of adulthood that are ahead of them.”

For more information on SkillForce’s educational programmes contact Ailsa Gough, Director of Learning and Operations, on [email protected] or 01623 827651.