On the 14th of April, two students and one guide runner are taking on the Manchester marathon to raise money for the Complementary therapies department and Sports academy at the Royal National College for the Blind. RNC, which is a specialist residential college, aims to provide education, employment, and empowerment for people with a visual impairment.

The RNC sports academy aims to provide opportunities to play and participate in a range of sports. Sports that are provided include Blind and visually impaired football, Goalball, Judo and VI tennis. The Academy supports a range of students, from Recreational level to athletes on Talent programs. The professional training environment and accessible facilities give the opportunity for everyone to be involved with sports at RNC.

The complementary therapies department at RNC provides a range of Itec qualifications including Holistic, Sports, on site Chair, aromatherapy, Indian Head and Reflexology massage. The department supports the students in completing work-based learning including weekly clinics at the college for the public and massaging at events such as sports and corporate events. The skills developed allow students to gain employment in the massage sector or alternatively set up their own businesses after leaving RNC.

The money raised will allow students further opportunities to take part in sport and provide equipment such as new massage couches to support learning at the college.

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