Official opening of new Massage and Complementary Therapies suite

We celebrated the official opening of our new state-of-the-art Massage and Complementary Therapies Suite on Wednesday 22 October. The opening, conducted by Helen Bowden, High Sheriff of Herefordshire, marked a significant milestone in enhancing vocational training opportunities for blind and visually impaired students at the College
The High Sheriff was warmly welcomed by RNC staff, students, and governors, and with assistance from students Samih El-Sanhouri and Izzy Harrison, she officially cut the red ribbon to open the new facility.

During her visit, she chatted with students, staff, and community partners, and even received a relaxing back massage from student Olly Johnson, showcasing the high level of professionalism and skill students have already achieved.

During the event, guests were offered complimentary hand, neck, and back massages. Staff also provided informative talks on the course structure and the career pathways available to graduates.

Before the event closed, students Tegan Booth and Olly Johnson presented the High Sheriff with flowers to thank her for officially opening the Suite.

The new suite offers an industry-standard learning environment equipped with modern, professional facilities.

Second-year student Samih praised the upgrade:

‘The new massage suite is a vast improvement. We now have more space to move around while performing different types of treatment and we have distinct theory and practical rooms which means we can separate lessons better without interrupting treatments with clients.'

Jim Wallis, Teacher in Charge of Massage, said:

'We’re thrilled with our new space. It’s helped bring the Massage and Complementary Therapies Department up to industry standard, especially with adjustable hydraulic couches which are essential for sports massage. A massive thank you to the foundations that contributed and to RNC’s Estates Team who brought the project into fruition.'

The project was made possible through the generous support of several key foundations:

The Powell Family Foundation: A donation of £10,000 helped fund essential equipment, including hydraulic massage beds, on-site massage chairs, and an interactive whiteboard.

Bernard Sunley Foundation: A £15,000 donation enabled the installation of modern ventilation and air conditioning systems.

One Stop Community Partnership: Contributed £1,000 towards essential consumables like massage oils, robes, slippers, and utility belts.

The students' work has had a tangible impact on the community. Sean Gane, Hereford Veterans Support Manager, praised the partnership with RNC:

'The Veterans Centre has provided important work placements for the students and it’s been wonderful to see the interactions between the armed forces community and RNC’s young people. It’s fantastic to see over time, how much confidence the students gain. The new facilities are lovely, well laid out, and well designed. I love the idea that you are giving the youngsters the confidence to start and run their own businesses but still support them even after they've left the College.'

Tonia Barden, from the NHS Community Mental Health Team for Older Adults, also commended the new space:

'The new facilities at the College are so much nicer, much more customer friendly. Our patients have benefited greatly from student visits, and the motivation they bring is invaluable.'

The Massage and Complementary Therapies course at RNC continues to defy national employment trends for visually impaired individuals. Students gain the skills and confidence to enter employment, start their own businesses, or pursue higher education in massage and physiotherapy.

View a gallery of photos from the event by clicking here.