A SPECIALIST Herefordshire college is said to be 'delighted' after receiving its grading from its latest Ofsted inspection on its residential provision.

The Royal National College for the Blind, based in Venns Lane in Hereford, was graded as 'good' in all areas, after the inspection that took place from January 25 to January 27 this year.

Specialising in education and training for young people with visual impairment, RNC’s students live on campus during term time, which means the standard of its residential experience is inspected independently of education by Ofsted.

The inspection took into account the overall experiences and progress of young people, how well students are helped and protected and the effectiveness of leaders and managers.

It said that young people received good-quality tailored care and that processes also enable the staff to develop good partnership relationships with parents and other professionals.

Ofsted also stated in the report that 'students feel safe' and that 'staff practice is constantly reviewed so that the safety of young people remains a priority.'

Despite dropping to 'good' from 'outstanding' Executive Principal Lucy Proctor was pleased with the report.

She said: "We have achieved a lot during a very difficult period for the College.

"The report was hugely positive and inspectors acknowledged that plans to remedy their recommendations were already in motion when they visited.

Since the report improvements have been implemented to update the catering provision with a better quality and wider choice of meals on offer.

Activities had to be curtailed during the pandemic, but a new activities co-ordinator joined the College in February and students have already been offered opportunities in bowling, boxing, swimming, rowing, board games, walks, shopping trips and a trip to Cadbury World.

The report said: "During this challenging period, existing staff have worked tirelessly to ensure that there has been consistent staffing and extra-curricular activities available to young people."

Jess Price, Director of Student Support Services at RNC, said that the Ofsted report demonstrates the high-quality personal support that our students receive.

She said: "We pride ourselves on developing our students' skills and confidence in preparation for living independently.

"We are thrilled that the hard work of our staff, during a particularly challenging time, was acknowledged in this report."