Orpheus alumni Sam B and Daniel D were given the opportunity to speak at the Association of Colleges (AoC) SEND Conference in London in December 2023. Both were asked to talk in front of around 90 attendees about their transition experience through Orpheus, how being at the college impacted their lives and helped them get to where they are today.

Daniel spoke about how living in his flat on site increased his independence as well as his creativity, as he had the freedom to practice his passion of piano when he liked. He also said that the travel training he took part in has now helped him feel confident about living in and getting around in the community to pursue employment opportunities.

Sam spoke about the confidence he built while at Orpheus, and how the opportunities to work with local arts organisations and galleries such as the Watts Gallery while with us have heavily inspired his Aztec and Mythical art and animation style. He also mentioned that since moving on from Orpheus he now takes commission work and is in the process of illustrating a book.

We always value the wonderful comments and journeys we hear from the learners who’ve attended the college. A big well done to Sam and Daniel for being excellent representatives for Orpheus and for their great speeches at the conference!