A free event designed to help learners prepare for the new academic year took place at The Shell Store in Hereford on Thursday, 13 August.
The study day brought together five specialists offering accessible, person‑centred support to help improve confidence, focus and regulation for learners of all ages.
Specialists attending included Hereford and Worcester Chamber of Commerce members Holly Bolt, specialist teacher and assessor; Kamila Hadley, nutrition practitioner and essential oils educator; and Fliss Falconer, educator and creator of EchoGuide Pro. Also offering expert advice and guidance were Cathy Hart, voice and confidence coach, and Ellie Starling, educator and trainee reflexologist.
The morning was designed to be flexible and neuroinclusive, allowing people to attend the full session or drop in for specific advice. One‑to‑one conversations with specialists were available, and breaks, movement, and other regulation strategies were both demonstrated and encouraged.
Attendees praised the event for its practical, calming and confidence‑building approach:
- “Thanks for a fantastic study skills day. It was really useful to me as a parent of a high school student new to the art of study.”
- “It was really useful because it helped me look at studying in a different way. It was a very relaxing day. 10/10.”
These reflections highlight the value of creating supportive, accessible spaces where learners and their families can explore new strategies and build confidence ahead of the academic year.