Cisco Networking Academy®
Globally recognised ICT training at the UK’s first academy for
people with a visual impairment.
CISCO is committed to building tomorrow’s workforce
“Today there are more connections over the internet than there are
people in the world. The overarching goal behind Internet of Everything
(IoE) is to create a world that is more efficient, clean, productive, and
sustainable — in other words, smarter. Cisco is leading the next step in
the evolution of the internet and helping to change the way we work, live,
play and learn.
Cisco is dedicated to using its technology, expertise and network to
create opportunities. The Networking Academy™ not only empowers
students with ICT knowledge, but they develop a range of other career
skills like problem solving, team work, critical thinking and
entrepreneurial skills; enabling students to compete and thrive in the
global workplace. The motto of the Networking Academy is ‘Mind Wide
Open’ and Cisco ultimately believes that education can benefit people,
communities and the planet. These shared values with The Royal
National College for the Blind resulted in the launching of the UK’s first
Networking Academy for people with visual impairments.”
Nuno Guarda
(Cisco Programme Manager and Head of Corporate Affairs)
Training on the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) qualifications
begins in January 2015. The CCNA Routing and Switching units offer
industry recognised certifications for entry-level career opportunities.
CCNA Routing and Switching can be delivered as an independent
programme of study or integrated into a broader IT course and helps
students develop work ready skills, building a foundation for success in
networking-related careers.
All units are designed for students with
a visual impairment wishing to
undertake a career in the computer
networking environment. RNC students
follow the same curriculum as their
sighted peers in Academies worldwide;
however the emphasis is on ensuring
that assistive technologies and
alternative formats allow students to
have the
right tools for the job upon leaving RNC.
CCNA Routing and Switching
The course teaches comprehensive
networking concepts. Students will
progress from basic networking to more
complex components and theoretical networking models.
The units offered at RNC are:
 CCNA 1: Routing and Switching Introduction to Networks:
Provides a foundation on internet and computer networks
 CCNA 2: Routing and Switching Essentials: Configuration and
troubleshooting of routers and switches in a small Network
 CCNA 3: Routing and Switching Scaling Networks: Configuration
and troubleshooting of routers and switches for advanced
functionality in large and complex networks
 CCNA 4: Routing and Switching Connecting Networks:
Understand WAN technologies, network services and devices in a
complex network
The course includes a level of literacy and numeracy specifically based
on the computer networking industry requiring:
 Manipulating data in spreadsheets
 Report writing
 Number bases for computing
 Communication and presentation skills
 Employability skills
Units must be studied consecutively. Students on BTEC Level 3 IT will
have the potential to do between one and three CCNA units in two years
alongside their BTEC course.
For trainees, completion of all four units is possible within six months as
an intensive IT networking programme. For the majority of trainees, at
least two to three units will be achievable.
It is essential for all potential Networking Academy students to have
enthusiasm and an interest in working in the IT networking industry,
preferably with previous work experience, where applicable.
“Innovations such as social networking, cloud computing, e-commerce,
web conferencing and desktop visualisation require new capabilities that
are all powered by networks and organisations. Across the world we are
experiencing a shortage of qualified ICT candidates to design, install and
manage these networks. Students who gain ICT knowledge and handson experience through Networking Academy courses can help fill the
existing gap.”
Nuno Guarda
(Cisco Programme Manager and Head of Corporate Affairs)
The Academy is set up to help provide extended work placements for
students in true networking environments with Cisco partners in their
home areas. Placements may range from two weeks to six months.
Further information is available on our website: www.rnc.ac.uk
Come and join us at RNC to get Work Ready!
The Royal National College for the Blind
Venns Lane,
Hereford HR1 1DT
Enquiries line: 01432 376 621
www.rnc.ac.uk
info@rnc.ac.uk
www.twitter.com/RNC_official
www.facebook.com/RNCHereford
This leaflet is available in other formats. Please contact our Enquiries
line on 01432 376 621.
RNC welcomes a diverse population of students and staff. We aim to
ensure that our college environment is free from prejudice and
harassment. In all aspects of delivery and employment, no individual or
group will be discriminated against on the grounds of gender, marital
status, gender reassignment, age, disability, race, religion and belief or
sexual orientation.
Company limited by guarantee no. 2367626. Registered charity no.
1000388. The information provided is correct at time of printing. RNC
Copyright 2014.