Cisco Networking AcademyGlobally 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 SwitchingThe 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:

n CCNA 1: Routing and Switching Introduction to Networks Provides a foundation on internet and computer networksn CCNA 2: Routing and Switching Essentials Configuration and troubleshooting of routers and switches in a small

networkn CCNA 3: Routing and Switching Scaling Networks Configuration and troubleshooting of routers and switches for

advanced functionality in large and complex networksn 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:n Manipulating data in spreadsheetsn Report writingn Number bases for computingn Communication and presentation skillsn 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 haveenthusiasm and an interest in working in the IT networking industry,preferably with previous work experience, where applicable.

This leaflet is available in other formats: braille, large print and audio. 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.

Further information is available on our website: www.rnc.ac.ukCome and join us at RNC to get Work Ready!

The Royal National College for the BlindVenns Lane, Hereford HR1 1DTEnquiries line: 01432 376 621

www.rnc.ac.ukinfo@rnc.ac.uk

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“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 hands-on 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.