Your journey to college

…seven steps to a new future

1. Start looking ahead

Look into your options and gather as much information as you can regarding courses that will help you achieve your ambitions. Visit our website for full information of all of the programmes that RNC offers: www.rncb.ac.uk

2. Contact your local JobcentrePlus

Speak to a Disability Employment Adviser (DEA) at your local JobcentrePlus who will be able to discuss your options for employment and training. One opportunity might be specialist residential training – your DEA will be able to advise you on the process of making an application, but please do not hesitate to contact our Student Enquiries team on 01432 376 621or  info@rncb.ac.uk for additional support. 

3. Visit RNC

An informal visit is by far the best way to experience what RNC has to offer. This is an excellent opportunity to meet staff and students and find out more from those who live and train here. You will also have an opportunity to learn more about our outstanding facilities, vocational courses, residential living, resources, support and the pre-entry assessment process. Please contact our Student Enquiries Team on 01432 376621 or info@rncb.ac.uk to arrange your personal ‘one-to-one’ visit.

4. Complete your application

If, following your visit, you would like to find out more or apply to train at RNC, our Student Enquiries team will be able to send you out an application form, which you can complete to register your interest – then just sit back and wait for us to get in touch.

5. Look into work placements/experience in your home area

Your ultimate goal after RNC will be employment, so we encourage all adult students to demonstrate their commitment to finding work by looking into work experience or placements in their home area. This will be discussed during your pre-entry assessment.

6. Pre-Entry Assessment (PEA)

All potential students are invited for a pre-entry assessment (PEA). PEA at RNC is a two-way process. It gives us an opportunity to get to know your strengths, interests and support needs and determine whether this is the right place for you. It gives you an opportunity to meet staff and students and ask any questions you might have about RNCB to help you decide whether it is the right place too!

Assessment programmes are based in the Gardner Hall Assessment Centre and include an assessment of:

• Literacy and Numeracy
• Braille and ICT
• Low vision and another disability or needs you may have
• Mobility and independent living skills

as well as individual interviews with our assessment team to discuss

• Course/programme that you wish to study and how this matches your employment aspirations
• Residential needs

We will let you know the outcome of your PEA within 10 working days of your assessment. We will ask you to confirm whether you wish to accept our offer. If you accept our offer, we will contact you and your DEA and confirm your travel day.

7. Start your programme

Welcome to RNC! Your support team, including your tutor and residential support staff, will ensure that your time at College starts smoothly and that you receive a full induction into living and training at the Royal National College for the Blind (RNC).