Allan Ridley has many interesting qualities, not least his determination. Though he is totally blind, he doesn't let that stop him pursuing his interests, whether he is water skiing or learning database design. When asked to tutor blind learner Allan Ridley, the author had to give a lot of thought to making the curriculum accessible. This article narrates the author's personal reflection on what proved to be a learning experience for them both. This article also describes how the appropriate use of enabling technology, instructional design and IT support combined to enable Allan to access a programme in database design that was originally designed as a paper-based course. It is written from the standpoint of a classroom practitioner and argues that it ought to be widespread practice to design courses that are available in a variety of formats, especially with the Disability Discrimination Act/SENDA due to come into full force by 2005. Over the year that Allan and the author worked together, they built up a wonderful professional relationship that enabled them to discuss openly any problems or successes.