New College Worcester (NCW), a national specialist residential college for young people who are blind or vision impaired, was delighted to welcome Dame Harriett Baldwin DBE, MP for West Worcestershire, for a visit on Friday 5 June.
During the visit, Dame Harriett met with students, staff and employer partners to learn more about the college’s work in preparing students for independent living, further education and future employment.
The afternoon began with a discussion highlighting NCW’s successes, as well as the challenges facing specialist education, particularly in relation to funding and the wider policy landscape—issues which have been explored in NCW’s recent report, Academically Successful and Independently Able. Given Dame Harriett’s strong interest in business, industry and the economy, conversations focused on the vital link between education and the workplace and how young people with vision impairment can be supported to access meaningful employment opportunities.
A key part of the visit was an employability panel, where students spoke about their experiences of work placements and preparing for their futures. Students Ghaalib, Dominic, Dylan and Toby shared their aspirations, as well as the importance of gaining real-world experience.
Dominic spoke about his passion for health and fitness and his role at a local gym, while Ghaalib highlighted how independently travelling to and from his placement had helped to build confidence and independence. The group also discussed some of the barriers that young people with vision impairment may face when accessing work experience and employment, as well as how these can be overcome.
Representatives from Dolphin Computer Access, a leading assistive technology company, also attended and spoke about their positive experience of hosting a visually impaired student. They shared how work placements had brought real benefits to their business, demonstrating the value and potential of inclusive employment practices.
Following the panel, Dame Harriett toured Vinchel Lodge, NCW’s recently refurbished Sixth Form accommodation. Here, staff demonstrated the essential role of habilitation in helping students develop the skills and confidence needed for adult life. During the visit, Dame Harriett met with sixth form student Casey, who spoke about enjoying life at NCW and making the most of the wide range of opportunities and activities available.
The visit highlighted the importance of specialist education in supporting young people with vision impairment to achieve their ambitions, develop independence and transition successfully into further education, employment or training.
Rachel Perks, Principal at New College Worcester said:
“We were delighted to welcome Dame Harriett Baldwin to NCW and to showcase the incredible work of our students and staff. It was a valuable opportunity to discuss how education, technology and employability come together to ensure our students can thrive and succeed in the world of work and beyond.”
