National Star

07/09/2025

For her 21st birthday, current student Athena, and her family, celebrated by hosting a Bollywood night - fundraising for National Star. ⭐ 🎉

They sold over 200 tickets, with performer Dr Parthasarthi Eklabya entertaining the crowd. In total they have raised over £1200!

A big thank you to Athena and her family, we are so grateful for your efforts, this will help us to continue to make a difference for young people with disabilities.

Got an upcoming event? We would love for you to fundraise for us. Click the link to find out more: https://www.nationalstar.org/support-us/fundraise-for-national-star/

06/09/2025

We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent. The Duchess was National Star’s Royal Patron from 1972 to 2006.

She visited Ullenwood several times and always took an interest in our work supporting young adults with disabilities.

Our thoughts are with HRH The Duke of Kent and their children, as well as the wider Royal Family at this time.

04/09/2025

While students have been off over the summer, our Site Services team have been working round the clock to redecorate and improve our facilities in Ullenwood, Bradbury Gardens, Wales and Hereford.

Working alongside specialist contractors when necessary, floors and ceilings have been replaced, walls moved, classrooms and bathrooms refurbished as well as communal areas, kitchens, hallways and landings in several student residences being redecorated. 🎨 🖌️

Star Café and Star Bar were completely refurbished, including installing a more accessible drinks station for learners. The before and after photographs speak for themselves.

A big thank you to Site Services – the students would not have the college experience they deserve without your input. 👏

03/09/2025

Come and see how National Star in Hereford supports young people with disabilities aged 16–25 to achieve their potential at our Open Day this October. Explore our newly expanded campus with:
- Two bright new classrooms
- Two additional personal care rooms
- A fully accessible life-skills kitchen with adjustable worktops and slide-and-hide ovens

You’ll also meet our specialist staff, discover our personalised learning approach, and find out how we help students build confidence, independence and prepare for their future.

🗓 Saturday 11 October, 10am - 2pm | 📍 The Eveson Centre

Book your place today: https://www.nationalstar.org/events/hereford-open-day/

01/09/2025

As we get ready for the new academic year, we want to take a moment to say a huge thank you to our incredible staff. ✨

Over the past 12 months, their expertise, dedication and hard work have helped students realise their aspirations and achieve so much.

Here's what some parents had to say about the difference they make every day.

29/08/2025

Is it time you boosted your CV, learnt new skills and played your part in ensuring young adults with complex disabilities live equal and active lives like the people around them? 💫

Consider joining National Star, a leading education and disability charity, as a Trustee or Governor. Listen to what Chair of Trustees Nick Grinham has to say about the roles and why you should apply.

🔗 Click the links to find out more:
Trustee - https://bit.ly/47JfmCw
Governor - https://bit.ly/4n57Sym

Closing date 3 October.

27/08/2025

Join National Star’s Charity Golf Day at Cotswold Hills Golf Club! 🏌⛳

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend golfer, enjoy a day of friendly competition while supporting young people with disabilities. ✨

- Date: Friday 3 October 2025
- Location: Cotswold Hills Golf Club, Ullenwood, Cheltenham, GL53 9QT
- Cost: £240 per team of four
- Tee-Off Time: First team starts at 10.30am
- Included: Bacon roll on arrival and a buffet lunch for all players

Places are limited, so secure your team’s spot today: https://bit.ly/3JA4cpN

26/08/2025

There is still time to book a spot on our wide range of part-time Community Learning courses!

If you’re aged 18 or over and have a disability, there may be a part-time learning opportunity that’s just right for you. We guarantee a warm welcome, lots of encouragement and the chance to develop some exciting new skills. 🎨 🏊

Available courses include:
- Ceramics
- Cookery
- Fitness
- Swimming
- Arts and Crafts

Click the link to find out more and book your place: https://lnkd.in/etf-hSVv

Courses run over 15 weeks and spaces are limited, so don't miss your chance. 📆

23/08/2025

Baking, birdwatching and fairground rides have been keeping our respite guests busy during their stay with us over the summer.

We tailor the activities offered to guests to suit their interests, giving them the chance to chill with their friends and enjoy day trips out.

One guest, Hayden said: ‘I loved it! All the staff were excellent, and I could not fault them at all. I am booking for next year and I’m going to stay at Bradbury Gardens again.' Thanks for the positive feedback 👍🏼

Discover more about our respite services https://bit.ly/4p34G8a

22/08/2025

At National Star, we offer a wide range of therapy services – from aquatic therapy and emotional wellbeing to occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech and language therapy. These are available to health-funded, social-funded and self-funded clients, with private sessions starting from £75.

Our private therapy calendar is now fully booked until the end of 2025, but we know that many members of our community are looking for therapists they can trust!

If you’d be interested in accessing therapy services privately with National Star, we’d love to hear from you. Please complete this short form so we can understand demand and shape our future services: https://www.nationalstar.org/private-therapies

Your input will play a vital role in shaping our future offering.

We offer expert therapy services - including physiotherapy, aquatic therapy and speech and language - for funded and private clients. With private sessions from £75, our calendar is full until late 2025. Register your interest today.

21/08/2025

A huge thank you to the people who sponsored learners at National Star in Wales for their impressive marathon 26-mile walk last term.

The learners put their best foot forward and clocked up the miles over a number of weeks to raise money to improve the outdoor space at National Star in Wales.

Over a nine week period the students walked along canal towpaths and explored local meadow and parks, to hit their target.

They learnt about Welsh industrial heritage along the way too! Llongyfarchiadau guys!

There's still time to show your support for their efforts - see the link in the comments below