Celebrating World Laughter Day with blind comedian Jamie MacDonald
In 1995, a doctor called Madan Kataria from India made it his mission to help people de-stress through 'laughter clubs'. These quickly spread around the globe and resulted in the creation of World Laughter Day in 1998. It is now observed on the first Sunday of May. To celebrate the day, I spoke to Jamie MacDonald - a blind, Glaswegian comedian who lives with his wife in Sheffield. The 43-year-old began losing his sight at 16 due to a degenerative eye condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa. He has since gone on to complete degrees, try [...]
Interview – Accessing STEM subjects as a VI student
For British Science Week, Charlotte Bateman spoke to a blind 16-year-old student (AJ) at the Royal National College for the Blind (RNC), Herefordshire - about making STEM subjects more accessible to VI pupils. While she is currently studying A-Levels in English Literature, Psychology and German, AJ excelled at science during her GCSE education. Below she shares her tips for getting the most out of your lessons, and what to do if you are struggling with the syllabus. What was your experience of science at school? AJ: My experience was pretty mixed. A lot of the issues [...]
Opportunity focus – Neon Big Bang Competition
Neon Big Bang Competition for 11-19 year olds A top prize of up to £1,500 is up for grabs as part of the UK’s top annual science and engineering competition. Have you got an idea that will change people’s lives? Or help the climate crisis? Maybe even an idea that is literally out of this world? The Big Bang Competition is now open for you to submit your big project idea. Please note: VICTA is in no way affiliated with this competition but would encourage any VICTA young people that are entering to get in touch [...]
