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International Learners

The Royal National College for the Blind RNC students RNC sports centre, thePoint4

Welcome

Welcome to The Royal National College for the Blind (RNC), the United Kingdom’s leading College of Further Education and Training for people aged 16+ who are blind or partially sighted.

Established in 1872 the College has been successfully working in the field of visual impairment for over 130 years.

Increasingly learners with sight loss from all over the world are coming to RNC as a way of preparing for University, the world of work and independent living.

In 2005 the College was awarded the prestigious Beacon status for excellence.  Only 8 colleges in the whole of the United Kingdom have received this award from the Government’s Department of Education and Skills.

The UK Government Watchdog (OFSTED -Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills) described the residential, support and care provided by the College as “Outstanding” (2008/2009)

RNC has many high profile supporters including His Royal Highness Prince Charles, who is the Patron of the College.

We are very proud of our success as a specialist residential provider of teaching, training and supported employment for learners with visual impairment and look forward to welcoming you to the Royal National College for the Blind.

Why Choose RNC?

Every year, more British people who are blind or partially sighted enrol at RNC than any other college in the UK.

Here are just a few reasons why:-

  • We have over 130 years expertise in delivering programmes to people who are blind or partially sighted.
  • We have over 60 programmes to help lead you into a variety of careers
  • Our programmes are tailor-made to meet your specific requirements.
  • Individually designed ESOL (English for Speakers of other Languages) programmes in preparation for the Cambridge Skills for Life qualifications, the Cambridge ESOL exams (KET, PET, FCE and CAE) and IELTS.
  • We offer you the chance to develop your mobility, independence and daily living skills.
  • We will prepare you for the world of work
  • We offer you the opportunity to progress to Higher Education
  • You will meet and make new friends
  • The College has a lively social life including activities that will introduce you to the UK way of life and cultural experience.
  • You will receive peer support from other people who are blind or partially sighted
  • We have a team of caring staff who are dedicated to your success
  • You will have a dedicated Personal Tutor and Enrichment/Employment Support Officer  to help you with academic and personal issues
  • The college has excellent equipment and resources

Our team of specialist staff will support you in all aspects of your life and work at RNC.  Whatever programme you choose you can be assured that every effort will be made to develop and enhance your knowledge and skills, to help you move forward and achieve your ambitions.

Life at RNC is interesting and varied providing you with opportunities to meet new friends; socialise in the College and local community.

UK Border Agency

The Royal National College for the Blind has maintained a grade A - rating as a sponsor by the UK Border Agency

For more information please see the UK Border Agency website.

www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk

 

A quote from Wadha Al-Mazroi from Qatar on what she thought about the college.

“I used to work as a switchboard operator at the main hospital in Alwakra, Qatar in the Middle East for seven years. There is no facility like RNC in my country so I came to the College as I wanted to learn English and be more independent.
 
I am studying for a diploma in Business, ICT, Braille, French and Business English.  I am also having support to develop my mobility. I couldn’t use a cane before I came to RNC and that made me embarrassed as I was dependent on other people. Having mobility sessions has given me the confidence to use a cane. When I go back home this will helped me to be more independent. When I leave RNC I want to work in an office or maybe customer services. 
 
I like the staff, they are very friendly. I feel RNC is good for everyone and they cater for all different ethic groups. RNC has great activities. I get help to go shopping to buy clothes as it is sometimes a barrier without someone with me. 
 
I have friends in college and outside in Hereford. I like the company. I like the halls of residence being in the College grounds as it makes it easier not to get lost. 
 
My advice to other international students is that they should learn a little English before coming to England. When you come here don’t give up straight away, give yourself time to settle in, try it for at least 3 months as it is a big challenge to begin with. Get over the barriers of English and you will enjoy it here, I did.”