Welcome to our Summer newsletter

Class of 2026 Prom Night

The RNC academic year wrapped up in spectacular style at this year's Prom. Students dazzled on the red carpet, with two students, Mills and Ruben, arriving in style in a beautiful horse drawn carriage.

Inside, the dining room was completely transformed into a sophisticated party venue, brought to life with stunning displays from Just Love It Balloons.

The dance floor was buzzing all night, thanks to DJ Matt Healey on the decks and three incredible live bands from Hereford College of Arts. Off the dance floor, students were treated  to a delicious buffet from College caterers Thomas Franks, a candy station from Party Floss, and plenty of memories were captured at the In the Booth photo booth.

Congratulations to Activities Co-ordinator, Denise, and her brilliant team of staff and volunteers for making it a night to remember.

Celebrating success - Student Awards 2026

On the last day of term we were thrilled to celebrate the progress, endeavour, resilience, and community spirit demonstrated by our students this year. 

Each award winner has a unique story of how they have embraced challenges, grown personally and academically, and made a positive impact within the College. Their achievements showcase the vibrant spirit that thrives within the RNC community. 

Read more to discover their stories and learn why they were recognised in this year's awards.

Conquering the great outdoors

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) expeditions are far more than just walks in the countryside. They are transformative experiences that equip our students with essential skills for life and work. Through these challenges, participants learn to work as a team, master practical outdoor skills like pitching tents and cooking meals, and develop navigation techniques using modified compasses. Plus, there is always the unique thrill of camping overnight under the stars.

At the beginning of July, 10 RNC students completed their final expedition over three days basing themselves at Byecross Farm Campsite on the banks of the River Wye. The group, a mix of Bronze, Silver, and Gold award candidates, tackled a variety of challenging terrains. 

They kicked off Day 1 with a linear walk passing through Monnington Court. Day 2 saw them ascend Hergest Ridge near the Herefordshire town of Kington, navigating an eight-mile stretch of Offa's Dyke. By Day 3, our remaining Silver and Gold students headed to Pen-y-Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, where the teams took a friendly race to the summit! 

The expedition was a massive success, helped along by perfect camping weather. A special shout-out goes to Emilio, who was named 'Camper of the Year' for getting thoroughly stuck into the walks and choosing to stay an extra night just for the experience. 

Glaciers, fossils, and 175 years of history!

Geography students Amelie and Ewan were lucky enough to attend the Herefordshire Parklands Conference at the beginning of July, which was a celebration of 175 years of the Woolhope Naturalists Field Club,

The Conference was held at NMiTE, and they heard from experts who spoke about the history and archaeology of Herefordshire's parklands, and were particularly interested in talks on geology and the landscape left behind when the glaciers retreated from the county.

It was also great to see the Fossil Boxes on display - a project that student Amelie has been working to adapt into accessible versions for schools.

If you are a school or college who would benefit from receiving an accessible fossil box, click the button below for more details.

Behind the scenes at BOSS

Level 2 Business students had an insightful and engaging visit to local business Border Office Supplies & Systems (BOSS) early in July. They met with Director Paul, who shared the story of how the business started and gave an overview of the wide range of products and services BOSS provides. 

They enjoyed a tour of the business, speaking with staff from Finance, Sales, IT, Warehouse, and Marketing. Students learned about the different roles within each department and the skills needed to work in them. 

The students asked lots of thoughtful questions throughout the visit, and it linked perfectly to the topics they've been studying this year. To finish, they had the opportunity to test a variety of office chairs and explore fabric samples, helping them decide what they'd choose for their own ideal workspace! 

A huge thank you to Paul and the team at BOSS for such a valuable experience, and to Teacher in Charge of Business Kath for organising the trip, and Alice, Ulia and Lauren for supporting.

E-I-E-I-O… TECHNO! RNC Wins Monmouth Carnival

RNC students are celebrating after taking first place at this year’s Monmouth Carnival with an unforgettable 'Old MacDonald’s Farmyard Rave' entry! Combining farmyard fun with festival vibes, students wowed crowds with colourful costumes, handmade props, bucket hats, energetic dancing and the chant: “E-I-E-I-O… TECHNO!” 

After months of planning and four creative weekend workshops led by Art Teacher Mel, the team’s hard work paid off as they danced their way through Monmouth and secured the top spot. 

To make the achievement even sweeter, the group also won a £200 prize, which will be donated to RNC’s Art Department to support future creative projects. A huge congratulations to all the students and staff who helped bring the Farmyard Rave to life and make it an award-winning success!

Sun, Strawberries, and Trivia - a report by student Michal

As part of their studies, Business students took on the challenge of planning, marketing, and executing a summer barbecue. In this formal report, Business student Michal writes about the success of the event - it's a great read. Well done Michal!

'On Wednesday 24 June 2026, students from the Business Department organised a summer barbecue and quiz. Food was provided by the Bistro - Thomas Franks Ltd - in an organised timely manner. Strawberries and cream were supplied by Neal’s Yard Creamery and Pengethley Farm Shop. 

All of the staff and students were enjoying the food to the sound of the summer playlist. Many people attended the quiz that was expertly managed by the quiz masters Reece and Matteo. Jack was a brilliant Master of Ceremonies. 

The quiz was split into two rounds with 15 questions each. It ended in a tie breaker showing how knowledgeable and enthusiastic the participants were. After the quiz, the raffle draw was announced. Finally, Business Teacher Trefor thanked everyone for attending the summer barbecue and quiz. 

The event was well supported by business staff and volunteers. A warm farewell was extended to those students present who were leaving RNC for pastures new this summer.'

Students champion inclusive hospitality at Coppid Beech Hotel

RNC students Shabaz and Jessie recently took part in a two day work experience and training visit at the Coppid Beech Hotel in Bracknell. From 22 to 23 June, they stepped out of the classroom and into a busy hospitality setting. 

It was a busy and rewarding couple of days for everyone involved. Jessie jumped right into the action by shadowing the hotel reception team to get an understanding of day to day operations in a bustling hotel. 

At the same time, Shabaz put his marketing skills to the test by designing and conducting his own survey, chatting directly with hotel guests to gather market research and build on his customer engagement skills. 

The trip was also a great opportunity for our students to share their own expertise. They delivered training sessions to the hotel staff on how to best support blind and visually impaired (V.I.) guests, giving valuable guidance on everything from the initial welcome to safely escorting them to their rooms.

Gearing up for university life

Ever wondered what it is like to go to university as a visually impaired (V.I.) student? Six young people from RNC discovered all about it in early June, during a special trip to the University of Worcester Lakeside Campus. 

RNC students joined young people from New College Worcester at a V.I. Information Day to explore the residential halls, a lecture theatre and student life in general. 

RNC students, Paris, Lauren, Jacob, Davide, Skye, and Roman enjoyed hearing from current and former V.I. university students along with lots of handy hints on how to take the next steps in their careers. 

Among the current university students was Alice Hopkins who gave a brilliant talk about her five years at Worcester. Alice and Harrison Keasey, who gave an online talk about his experiences, are both former RNC students. Students also enjoyed a talk on the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) and explored a variety of accessible formats during the visit.

Students making their mark

An evening workshop with artist Gemma Moore gave students another opportunity to explore art in their leisure time. 

The session focused on the technique of mark making. Students traded traditional brushes for charcoal, paint, sponges, string, bubble wrap, and their fingers, allowing them to focus on the tactile experience and letting their creativity flow.

Everyone had a great time and produced some lovely pieces of work.

Back on track in May

Our students were back on the cycle track in May, with many gaining the confidence to ride around by themselves on both single trikes and bikes. A massive thank you to Jim and the team at the Monday Cycle Club. They were so helpful, staying behind to adjust bikes, ride alongside the students, and keep everyone going. Even on a chilly, drizzly day, their support (and much-needed hot drinks and biscuits!) kept the weather from stopping the fun. 

Without the support of the Cycle Club, our staff and volunteers (Claire, Gerry, Kevin, Mick, Phil, and Rachel), it simply wouldn't be possible to give so many students the opportunity to experience cycling in such a safe environment.

Pryvit! (Hi!)

We're thrilled to share that student Vasilisa had an article published in the local press in May. The Hereford Times offers RNC students the opportunity to contribute to their 'Talking Point' column, typically featuring about five articles per year. 

This collaboration is invaluable for our students, allowing them to share their voices and experiences with a wider audience. It's a great way for them to develop their writing skills and learn to adhere to word counts and strict deadlines, giving them transferable skills that will be incredibly beneficial for their future, whether applying for university or seeking employment.

Building skills, confidence, and connections in the media industry

RNC student Davide undertook a weekly work placement at CJP Broadcast Service Solutions Ltd, where he explored his route into the music and media industries. CJP are committed to creating practical opportunities that help make the media and broadcast sector more accessible to emerging talent. 

As part of Davide’s placement, he wrote a blog reflecting on his journey so far, from studying music in Italy to developing his production skills in the UK using accessible audio software. It is a thoughtful insight into how accessibility, practical learning and the right opportunities can help build confidence and independence.

Davide was also invited to attend this year’s Media Production and Technology Show (MPTS) in London with the CJP team. The show provided a valuable opportunity to experience the industry first hand, attending sessions, exploring new technology and learning more about different career pathways. 

RNC staff member Andrea accompanied Davide. They attended a range of sessions: AI Voices, Backing Up Made Easy, and 5 Reasons Your Podcast Sounds SH*T. CJP’s Kieran also introduced Davide to some of their industry contacts. 

Time on the exhibition floor allowed them to explore a variety of equipment, from lighting and microphones to sampling desks. A particularly interesting highlight was a voice activated system from Broadcast Bionics, which sparked ideas around future collaboration and accessibility testing with RNC students. Overall, the experience was a valuable extension to Davide’s learning and thank you to CJP for the opportunity.

Bringing balance to the pressures of exam season

Helena Sime delivered an Alexander Technique workshop that proved both timely and highly beneficial for students navigating the pressures of the exam period. 

Designed as a taster session, the workshop introduced participants to the core principles of the Alexander Technique, offering insight into how it can be tailored to meet individual needs and support long-term improvements in posture, mobility, and stress management. 

Throughout the 90-minute session, students were guided through simple movements, with Helena talking them through each step clearly and calmly. Her approach combined verbal instruction with gentle, hands-on assistance, using light, non-invasive touch to help guide the body into better alignment. 

A particular focus was placed on head posture and the alignment of the head and shoulders, with even the smallest adjustments having a noticeable impact on the students’ overall sense of wellbeing. Many of those attending were returning students who had previously taken part in Helena’s improvisation workshop in March, and it was clear they were delighted to reconnect with her work in a new context. 

The overwhelmingly positive response suggests a strong interest in exploring the Alexander Technique further, particularly in its ability to support both physical and mental balance in everyday life.

Getting to grips with a busy reception

RNC student Oli is studying OCR Level 2 Cambridge Technical Certificate in Information Technology, OCR Level 2 Cambridge Technical Business, and RSL Level 2 Creative Music Industry. 

As part of the Business course, Oli was required to complete a work placement to support his understanding of working in a business and administrative environment. He completed this placement on Reception at thePoint4, where he attended once a fortnight to gain practical, hands-on experience. 

Oli took on a range of general reception duties, which included signing in visitors, printing visitor passes and emailing staff to notify them when parcels have arrived. 

Wishing a 100th Happy Birthday to Sir David Attenborough

To mark David Attenborough’s incredible 100th birthday, student Matteo wanted to host a special celebration to honour the occasion. The students got stuck in by making beautiful handmade cards, which were posted off to Sir David’s production company. This was followed by a celebration in the College orchard to mark the big day. 

The afternoon was filled with nature-themed activities in tribute to Sir David's work. Those gathered listened to the King’s birthday message and enjoyed several crafts, including some very creative hedgehog weaving. The group also spent time planting sunflowers to kick off a competition to see whose would grow the tallest over time. No centenary is complete without a party atmosphere, so everyone gathered to sing happy birthday and enjoy a slice of cake. 

Matteo was assisted in hosting the celebration by staff members Debs and Mel. A big well done goes to the students who attended the drop-in celebration: Matteo, Jacob, Amy, Davide, Molls, Ewan, Reisha, Humna, and Finn. It was a wonderful way to celebrate a true legend.

Students host coffee morning to celebrate RNC’s volunteers

Early in May our Level 3 Business Studies students put their learning into practice by organising a coffee morning as part of an Event Management unit. The event was a chance to say thank you to RNC’s volunteers and governors, while giving students real experience of planning and delivering an event. From a quiz and homemade cakes to clear roles across the group, the students demonstrated excellent organisation and teamwork throughout. The morning was very well received, with lots of positive feedback and proved a valuable learning experience for everyone involved.

Messing about on the water

Students had a fun time messing about on the water at the end of April during a visit to Lakeside Outdoor Activities in Worcester, part of the University of Worcester. Thanks to Aiden, Fraser and Deputy Manager Jess, who supported 11 students alongside five staff and volunteers with kayaking and paddleboarding. 

The day was split into two 90‑minute sessions, followed by lunch and a walk over to Top Barn Farm Shop and Farm Park for an ice cream, all set within the beautiful shared grounds. 

Everyone had a really enjoyable day, and it was wonderful to see the students' confidence grow as they took part in the activities. Thanks to RNC staff members Andrea, Denise, Ella, and volunteers Eliot and Pippa for supporting the trip.

Huge thanks also to the Whirlwind Charitable Trust who funded the trip, meaning there was no cost to the students.

Geography students investigate water and carbon cycles

Geography students were practising their fieldwork skills in preparation for their A Level exams in April. They designed and carried out activities to investigate the role of Aylestone Park in supporting the water and carbon cycles. 

Methods included measuring infiltration rates and carbon storage in vegetation - two very important topics with local applications considering the incidence of flooding in the local area. 

The students are now presenting their results and analysing their findings using tactile diagrams and GIS online.

RNC's pottery throw down 

A group of RNC students had a fantastic time at CUP Ceramics in April. The session gave everyone the chance to get hands-on and create their own unique pots. For our students, pottery is the ultimate “seeing with your hands” activity. The instant tactile feedback of the clay gives creative control and helps build a clear understanding of 3D form. 

The experience was also incredibly therapeutic. Working with clay is naturally mindful, supporting fine motor skills and spatial awareness while offering a welcome break from everyday pressures. 

Huge thanks to the team at Cup Ceramics for such a wonderful workshop, and to RNC staff member Denise, alongside our brilliant volunteers Catherine, Gerry, and Pippa who supported the trip.

RNC teacher leading the way in inclusive science

A Cambridge OCR blog written by Andri Achilleos following a recent visit to the College shows how a traditionally visual subject can be made genuinely accessible, and how closely this work aligns with the Curriculum Framework for Children and Young People with Vision Impairment (CFVI). 

Through tactile diagrams, 3D models and well‑embedded assistive technology, students are able to take part fully in practical science, without lowering expectations. Just as importantly, they’re building the skills and confidence needed to access learning more independently.  

Congratulations to RNC's Teacher in Charge of Biology, Annie Cook, and her students, who helped inform this piece. It’s wonderful to see the College's expertise, experience, and commitment to inclusive practice reflected so clearly.

Planet Mark Certified: Our journey to net zero starts here

We are proud to announce that we are a Planet Mark Certified Business. Becoming Planet Mark Certified means that we have taken the best first step towards achieving net zero, at a critical time for our planet.

To progress on the journey to net zero it is important that we measure the full inventory of our carbon footprint as we cannot manage what we do not measure. As a Planet Mark Certified Business, we are therefore committed to increasing what we are measuring each year to eventually understand the carbon emissions associated with all our business activities, across our entire value chain. This is an important step on our journey to net zero as an organisation’s sustainability journey is also a measurement journey. Once we know our total carbon footprint, we will be able to establish net zero targets...

RNC Hereford dominates at home to retain top spot of EBFL

After a one-year hiatus from hosting duties, elite blind football returned to Hereford in spectacular fashion on Saturday 23 May, with the Royal National College for the Blind (RNC) and thePoint4 successfully playing host to the third leg of the European Blind Football League (EBFL). 

On a beautiful, sunny day in Hereford, fans were treated to a masterclass of blind football. Entering the round as league leaders, RNC Hereford faced immense pressure to maintain their streak, but RNC capitalised on their home advantage to keep their position at the top of the league.

Goalball League Champions 2025/26

After an exciting season of three tournaments, we are thrilled to announce that the RNC Sports Academy are Goalball UK Region B League Champions, finishing top of the league with an impressive 24 points. Results across the season were strong and consistent: 

Tournament 1, Oxford (October): RNC Academy placed 3rd, RNC Hereford placed 5th

Tournament 2, Kidlington (January): RNC Academy placed 1st, RNC Hereford placed 2nd

Tournament 3, Bristol (April): RNC Academy placed 2nd, RNC Hereford placed 3rd 

RNC Academy faced tough competition throughout but showed determination and quality to secure the league title. A special congratulations goes to Ishaq, who received the Top Male Goalscorer award after scoring an outstanding 33 goals across the season. 

Our RNC Hereford team also enjoyed a fantastic campaign, continuing to develop and build experience while achieving some excellent results against strong opponents.

More silverware as RNC crowned Goalball Intermediate champions

Huge congratulations to the RNC Sports Academy Goalball squad - Danny, Gareth, Rico, and Tegan - for an incredible performance at the Intermediate Tournament in Sheffield in May. 

The team took Gold, finishing first out of 16 teams to be officially crowned Goalball UK Intermediate Trophy winners! 

In individual success, Rico was named Player of the Tournament after an outstanding weekend on the court! 

Acoustic shooting glory for RNC students

There was big acoustic shooting news to share in May from the British Championships at the NSRA Aldersley Shooting Centre, with fantastic results for four RNC students. 

Junior British Championship 

1st – Ana 

2nd – Harvey 

3rd – Humna 

Full British Championship 

1st – Ana 

2nd – Harvey 

Class Winners 

Class A – Ana 

Class B – Harvey 

Class C – Humna 

These results mean RNC can now boast having the top two acoustic shooters in the country, who may be considered for selection for the European Championships. 

A special mention to Ruben, who, in his first competition after only starting the sport in September, finished just outside the medals.

Former RNC student smashes Herefordshire Triathlon

A huge congratulations to Gareth Bennett and Owen Bainbridge for completing the Herefordshire Sprint Triathlon, part of the Herefordshire Multi Sport Festival.

With no set expectations other than to enjoy the experience, the duo crossed the finish line in a fantastic time of 1:36. This was a massive milestone for both, marking Owen's first-ever triathlon and Gareth's first time guiding.

In total, the pair raised over £1,000 (including Gift Aid) in support of RNC. We are incredibly proud of their achievement and grateful for their support.

Cyclists brave heat in ‘Hereford 50’ bike ride raising funds for RNC

On Sunday 24 May, one of the hottest days of the year so far, a group of 28 cyclists took to the roads of Herefordshire for the ‘Hereford 50’ bike ride. Organised by longtime friend of the College Robin Stephens, the event raised a magnificent £7,382.05, including Gift Aid, to support the work of the Royal National College for the Blind (RNC).

The challenge featured both a 50-mile bike ride and a 35-mile route. Among the participants were four visually impaired (V.I.) tandem stokers from the Caversham V.I. Pedallers. RNC staff member Phil Marshall and RNC volunteer Rachel O'Connell also took part in the ride. 

Alongside raising funds for RNC, Robin Stephens organised the event in memory of his father, Gordon Stephens, a former student of the College back in the 1940s and 1950s. The family’s longstanding connection with RNC is permanently honoured on campus, with Stephens Hall named after Gordon.

Join our lottery

Help give our fundraising a boost by joining the Grassroots Sports Lottery! Tickets cost just £1.00 and you could win up to £25,000.

Even better 50% of every ticket purchased goes directly to the RNC Sports Academy, helping to fund team travel and essential sports equipment.

Sign up today to support our athletes and give yourself a chance to win big!