Driving Change: The Powerful partnership between St Vincents School and Speed Of Sight.
A Truly Inspiring Relationship
Over the past three years, a truly inspiring relationship has blossomed between St Vincent's School for the Visually Impaired and the incredible Speed of Sight charity, led by the remarkable Mike Newman. This partnership has opened up extraordinary opportunities for our pupils - many of whom never imagined they'd one day find themselves behind the wheel of a racing car. Thanks to Speed of Sight's specialist adapted vehicles, their amazing team of skilled volunteer drivers, and a shared belief that nothing is impossible, groups of blind and visually impaired pupils from St Vincent's have been given the chance to experience the thrill of driving at specially arranged track days. For many of our pupils, it's a moment of freedom. control, and confidence that they simply don't find anywhere else. These experiences have proven to be much more than exciting days out - they have been powerful, life-changing events. The impact reaches far beyond the track. The relationship between our school and Speed of Sight has become a genuine partnership rooted in shared values and mutual respect.
Mike Newman, a blind world record-holding racing driver and the founder of Speed of Sight, visited the school to deliver an inspirational talk to our pupils. His powerful message- "change your thinking from 'I can't' to how can I?-has deeply resonated across the entire school community. It's become more than a quote - it's a mindset we're working hard to embed in everything we do for both pupils and staff alike. And the partnership is only growing. We are thrilled to welcome Speed of Sight to our upcoming summer camp, where they will be delivering a driving experience not only for our pupils but also for potential new pupils attending the camp. This initiative ensures that even more young people living with visual impairment can access the same unforgettable experience and start to build confidence and aspiration from the very start of their journey with us. Speed of Sight is not just offering driving experiences - they're opening minds, building resilience, and showing visually impaired young people that there are no limits to what they can achieve.
St Vincent's School is proud to stand beside them in this mission. We're grateful for their ongoing support. inspired by their passion, and excited for what's to come.
Together we are driving change - one lap at a time.
Conor McSorley QTVI
Head of Humanities
St Vincents School for Visually Impaired and other Sensory Needs.