Students from The Royal Society for Blind Children’s (RSBC) specialist college for vision impaired young people aged 16-25, Dorton College, enjoyed a football-themed afternoon at Orpington Village Hall recently.
Vision Impaired Students Enjoy Football Activities with Palace For Life Foundation
John Harney and Ben Perriman from the Palace For Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace FC, hosted the event. During the afternoon, 18 students took part in football-themed team competitions based on speed and accuracy – although the main goal was to have fun as the 2024 academic year ended!
Dorton College is the only VI specialist college in London and the South East. Josie Grainger-Francova, college principal and RSBC education director, said of the session:
“Every year, in the final week of term, Dorton College holds an Activities Week. The Palace For Life event was a key element of that this year, giving our students the opportunity to participate in football-based activities and have lots of fun! And it tied in beautifully with England’s progression in the European Cup, too.”
Palace for Life uses the power of football and the Palace brand to change the lives of people across South London. Coach John said:
“It was a pleasure to host the activities for Dorton College’s students. Everyone seemed to enjoy the session, and Ben and I certainly did too.”
Dorton College Students Share Their Excitement About the Football Session
The Dorton College students had a fantastic time at the sports session. Manny said:
“It was fun, and I’d like to do it again. I love sports – it’s one of my favourite things to do.”
Fellow student Frankie commented:
“I liked playing football and all the different games, as well as talking about football!”
Jude said:
“It was amazing! I had fun!”
And Lee added:
“It was a fun and inclusive day for everyone.”
RSBC and Palace For Life Offer Ongoing Sports Opportunities for Vision Impaired Youth
The great news is that RSBC’s relationship with Palace For Life means that there are more opportunities for young people with vision impairment to exercise. Fitness sessions take place at the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre in London, where they can take part in inclusive sports and exercises tailored to suit all abilities.
The sessions are adaptable and there is always a football element involved. They’re available to any child or young person who is blind and partially sighted and aged from 11 to 25 years old. Plus, siblings are welcome to join in, and parents can come along to watch!
Many participants come on their own, while others get dropped off and picked up. However, RSBC can arrange for a member of staff or a volunteer to walk with you from Crystal Palace train station – just contact Owain at owain.robinson@rsbc.org.uk if you have any questions about the sports sessions.
Find out more in our Events section at https://www.rsbc.org.uk/activities/