Pryvit!

We're thrilled to share that student, Vasilisa, had an article published in the local press in May. The Hereford Times offers RNC students the opportunity to contribute to their 'Talking Point' column, typically featuring about five articles per year. This collaboration is invaluable for our students, allowing them to share their voices and experiences with a wider audience. It's a great way for them to develop their writing skills and learn to adhere to word counts and strict deadlines, giving them transferable skills that will be incredibly beneficial for their future, whether applying for university or seeking employment.


Hello! I am a student and I’m studying at the Royal National College for the Blind. This is my second year and I am studying massage. After College I am planning to go to university and study physiotherapy or psychology.

I came to the UK more than three years ago from Ukraine. I only knew basic English, and it made my life hard at the beginning of my journey. I had to learn the English language as well as braille grade two at school. It was very difficult at first. I also had other subjects like English, maths and science and because I couldn’t understand a lot I had to work twice as hard. It was also hard for my teachers and my TA to explain something because my vocabulary wasn’t that good at the time.

After a while I started to understand a bit more as well as talk a bit more which made life a bit easier for me and my teachers. When I couldn’t understand something, my TA was creative so I could understand a word or a question that I was given a bit better.

I had a very interesting experience of the mainstream school and there are some parts I like about it and some parts that I dislike. My social life wasn’t the best at school because I couldn’t talk to people at first. I only had a few people who talked to me, mostly from Ukraine, but some were born in England.

After two years I came to RNC. I really enjoy it here because I’ve got a lot of friends.

In the future I am hoping to study psychology or physiotherapy at university. I’m hoping to work close to the medical industry: I can’t be a doctor due to my sight. Additionally, I want to be able to travel to some countries like Spain and possibly Finland. I would love to visit Italy because it is nice and warm.

Vasilisa Kokhana
28 May 2026