• Specialism:
  The leading college for people who are blind or partially sighted
• Residential/Day:
  Residential
• Course Start Dates:
  Intake each term
• Course Length per Year in weeks:
  Up to 36 weeks per year
• Maximum Student Numbers:
  Maximum 210 students
• Age Range:
  16 – 65+

General Description of College:
The Royal National College for the Blind is the only college specialising in education and training for people with sight loss to be awarded Beacon Status for Excellence. Based at our attractive campus in Hereford, the College helps students prepare for Further or Higher Education, the workplace and independent life. We offer a wide range of academic and vocational programmes which are tailored to suit each individual and can include mobility and independence training, work placement opportunities and an exciting extra-curricular programme along with exceptional learning and residential support.

The Curriculum:
Our expert teaching staff deliver a rich learning experience for students on programmes ranging from Entry Level to Level 3. Subject areas include A Levels, Administration, Art and Design, Braille and Braille Technology, Business, ICT, Languages, Massage and Complementary Therapy, Media and Music Technology, Performing Arts and Sport, Recreation and Leisure.

Specialist Facilities:
RNCB’s learning and living environment is designed to be stimulating and inclusive. Education and training facilities incorporate the latest technologies, innovative learning tools and modern professional offices, gyms, recording studios, massage treatment rooms and performance spaces. Residential, sport and leisure facilities are equally outstanding, promoting a community atmosphere where students are supported to make the most of every opportunity.

Statements:

1. expertise in working with learners who are blind or visually impaired
2. opportunities to prepare for further training after college
3. opportunities to follow a vocational course
4. opportunities to prepare for work after college
5. a personal development programme
6. opportunities to experience real work situations
7. a work placement scheme with local employers
8. opportunities to improve literacy, numeracy and/or communication skills
9. opportunities to improve Information and learning technology skills
10. extensive use of assistive and adaptive technologies
11. comprehensive support in the learning and use of Braille and/or Moon
12. specialist orientation and mobility training to enable independent travel
13. a programme to help learners to look after themselves more independently
14. opportunities to take part in a wide range of social, leisure and sporting activities
15. guidance and counselling services
16. a range of therapeutic services
17. on site medical provision
18. waking night residential staff
19. residential provision linked to the academic year
20. day provision