Business Details
45 Years
experience
Specialist Education for Visually Impaired Students
New College Worcester is a national residential institution dedicated to educating children and young people aged 11 to 19 with vision impairments. Our tailored programmes are meticulously designed to meet individual needs through Education, Health and Care Plans, focusing on academic achievement, independent living skills, and extracurricular engagement. With expert subject teachers qualified to support vision-impaired learners, we maintain very small class sizes to ensure personalised attention. Our Waking Day curriculum extends learning beyond traditional hours, fostering holistic development in a safe and supportive environment. We prioritise student independence through structured residential experiences, preparing learners for life beyond education. Our outreach services provide professional training and transcription solutions, sharing expertise with mainstream educational settings nationwide.Recognised for excellence, we hold partnerships with VI charities and have received accolades like the Leading Parent Partnership Award. With over four decades of experience since our founding in 1981, our team combines deep sector knowledge with innovative teaching methodologies. We maintain rigorous safeguarding standards while promoting high aspirations for every individual. Our commitment to accessibility is demonstrated through Braille transcription services and adaptive learning technologies. As a registered charity (1118377), we continually invest in facilities and staff development to maintain our position as a national leader in vision-impaired education.
Services
Transcription Services
Professional Training
Outreach Service
See Me! Programme
First Aid Training
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- Tailored EHCP programmes for vision-impaired learners
- Expert teachers qualified in vision impairment education
- Very small class sizes for personalised attention
- Comprehensive Waking Day curriculum beyond school hours
- National outreach services supporting mainstream schools
What people say
Caring and supportive environment
Excellent student independence development
Expert specialist teachers
Personalised learning programmes
Strong parent partnership
Services
Transcription Services
Our in-house transcription department produces accessible materials in Braille, large print, and tactile formats. We convert textbooks, menus, and official documents using specialist software. This service supports both educational and commercial clients nationwide. Our experienced team ensures accurate reproduction of complex materials for vision-impaired individuals.
Professional Training
We provide bespoke training for mainstream school staff in vision impairment education. Qualified QTVI specialists deliver sessions on science, mathematics, and access technology. Training includes resource sharing and curriculum adaptation techniques. Available as half-day or full-day sessions with optional travel to client locations across the UK.
Outreach Service
Our outreach programme offers resources and training to professionals working with vision-impaired students. We host annual revision courses and publish specialist educational bulletins. The service includes classroom resource provision and consultation for mainstream schools implementing inclusive teaching strategies.
See Me! Programme
This initiative raises awareness of vision impairment through school visits and workshops. Our youth engagement officer delivers interactive assemblies explaining daily life with visual impairments. The programme includes classroom resources aligned with PSHE curriculum requirements for primary and secondary schools.
First Aid Training
We offer regulated first aid and mental health training courses for professionals and community groups. Qualified instructors deliver workplace first aid certifications and youth mental health awareness programmes. Training is available at our Worcester campus or on-site at client organisations.
People
Rachel Perks
Principal
Rachel leads New College Worcester with over 20 years' experience in special educational needs. She champions inclusive education while maintaining high academic standards. Her leadership focuses on student independence and staff development.
Jane Annis
Receptionist
Jane serves as the first point of contact for parents and visitors. With five years at NCW, she manages administrative operations and visitor coordination. Her welcoming approach supports the college's family-centred ethos.
Paul Stephens
Assistant Principal
Paul oversees personal development and delivers first aid training. He brings 15 years' experience in student welfare from further education. His expertise includes mental health support and youth engagement strategies.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We educate students aged 11 to 19 with vision impairments, providing both school and college-level programmes.
Do you accept students with additional needs?
Yes, we support students with combined needs including hearing impairments, autism, and mobility challenges alongside vision impairment.
How are places funded?
Most student placements are funded through Local Authority Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
Do you offer day or boarding options?
We provide full or weekly boarding for ages 11-18, with daily attendance available for some students.
What vocational courses are available?
We offer entry-level and vocational qualifications at Key Stages 4 and 5, including ASDAN personal development courses.
How do you support student independence?
Our Waking Day curriculum and residential programmes develop life skills through structured, real-world learning experiences.
