Inspiring, nurturing and empowering young people with a vision impairment.

Vision Impaired Students Honoured at Prestigious Awards

Faith and Zac meeting master and receiving certificates
Each year, New College Worcester, a national residential school and college for young people aged 11 to 19 who are blind or vision impaired, is invited as guests of the Worshipful Company of Lightmongers for their prestigious annual May Court Dinner.
 
This distinguished black-tie event, held at the historic Tallow Chandlers Hall in London, brings together members and guests for a Champagne reception, a four-course dinner, and the presentation awards to students. Representing New College Worcester at the event were sixth form students Zac and Faith, accompanied by Mr Stephens and Mrs Ward. 
 

About the Worshipful Company of Lightmongers

The Worshipful Company of Lightmongers is a modern Livery Company whose members are involved in, or connected to, the lighting industry. Its membership represents all areas of the sector, including lamp and luminaire manufacturers, electrical contractors, wholesalers, public lighting engineers, consulting engineers, lighting designers, and architects.

As well as fostering the art and science of lighting and promoting fellowship within the industry, the Company is committed to investing in its future. The Lightmongers actively support education and training programmes and, through the Lightmongers Charitable Trust, provide funding to charities supporting individuals with sensory loss, including those with visual or hearing impairments.

New College Worcester is proud to be one of the educational settings that benefits from this ongoing support, alongside Mary Hare School for deaf children.

A Journey Full of Anticipation

The journey to London began with a shared sense of excitement, as students and staff looked ahead to a memorable experience. Mr Stephens ensured his tuxedo made the journey too, ready for the evening ahead! There was a clear sense that the day would be something special.

Upon arriving in the capital, the group enjoyed a relaxed afternoon at the hotel, taking time to rest and prepare before the evening’s event.

An Evening to Remember

Dinner with the Lightmongers proved to be a highlight in every sense. The group received a warm welcome and were looked after superbly throughout the evening, made to feel genuinely valued as part of the celebration.

The quality of the food was exceptional, but it was the atmosphere and generosity of the hosts that made the evening truly memorable.

A particular moment of pride came as Zac and Faith stepped forward to receive their awards. Their achievements were recognised with smiles and applause, marking a significant and well-deserved milestone.

A London Adventure

The trip also included some classic London experiences. Hailing a taxi became a memorable adventure—arms raised, hopeful waves, a few near misses, and finally, success—bringing a sense of achievement in its own right.

The following morning began with a cooked breakfast, offering an impressive variety of options, which the group made the most of.

The next challenge came in the form of navigating the London Underground at rush hour. While the busy environment could have been overwhelming, what stood out was the kindness of fellow passengers. People paused, made space, and supported the students in moving safely through the crowds—an encouraging reminder of awareness and consideration in even the busiest settings.

Reflections on a Special Visit

As the visit drew to a close, the journey home provided a quieter moment for reflection. The initial excitement gave way to a sense of contentment, as students and staff alike looked back on a day filled with achievement, shared experiences, and lasting memories.

New College Worcester remains incredibly grateful to the Worshipful Company of Lightmongers for their continued support and hospitality, and proud of the students for representing the college so well.