College was a really important time in my life, and it’s where I discovered my passion for becoming a PE teacher. My Sport BTEC class was a fantastic group of people who supported each other. I also played netball for the College, which was another highlight. Playing kept me active, helped me make great friends, and taught me valuable teamwork skills. Overall, College helped to shape my future and I’ll always look back on that time with fond memories.

After leaving College, I decided to take a gap year to work and earn some money before beginning my degree at Brunel. It was a time to gain some real-world experience and I’m really glad I took that break. I then started my four-year Physical Education teaching degree and at first, everything was going well. However, during the second year, my family and I faced an incredibly difficult time.   We tragically lost my sister Lucy to suicide, and it became a real struggle to keep going and stay focused on my studies. Despite the overwhelming grief, I managed to finish my degree and went on to work as a secondary school PE teacher for four years.

It was during my teaching career that I had a pivotal realisation – I wanted to merge my passion for teaching with my growing passion for mental health. By then, my mum and my sister Emma had established The Lucy Rayner Foundation, a mental health charity dedicated to supporting young people.  Joining the charity felt like the natural way to combine my personal experiences with my professional skills, and I knew I could make a real difference in the mental health space, especially for young people.

As Head of the Schools Programme for the foundation, I lead the development and delivery of mental health awareness and education initiatives across our partner schools. My work focuses on creating safe spaces for open conversations around mental health, reducing stigma, and empowering students with the knowledge and tools they need to support their wellbeing. It’s a deeply rewarding position that allows me to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people, helping to build a future where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health.

Looking back to my time at College, while it wasn’t always clear where I was headed, I see how important it is to pursue what excites you, even if the path isn’t always straightforward. Staying true to your interests and passions will guide you towards a career that feels fulfilling, even when challenges arise.

So my advice would be to follow your passion. It sounds simple, but it’s the key to finding a career that feels meaningful and worth investing in. Whether it’s teaching, mental health, or anything else, when you genuinely care about what you’re doing, it makes all the hard work and setbacks feel more rewarding. Don’t be afraid to take the opportunities that align with your passions, even if they seem daunting at first.

Becky Rayner

Reigate College: 2007-2009

Higher Education: Brunel University, BA Physical Education (Secondary QTS)

Currently: Head of the Schools Programme, The Lucy Rayner Foundation