All full time teaching staff are both subject specialists and qualified in teaching visually impaired children. High expectations are set for pupils and they are encouraged to develop lively, enquiring minds. Classes are, of course, small, enabling students to receive the individual attention needed to reach high goals. Staff at New College devise different techniques to give pupils full access to the National Curriculum and are innovative and imaginative in their approach and materials. The staff rely heavily upon oral presentation.
Classrooms have no blackboards but are fully equipped with the latest computer technology.
Students are encouraged to find appropriate work methods and to become aware of technological developments which may help when they go on to Higher Education or employment. Low vision aids, closed circuit television and audio visual aids are all available. To make subjects accessible to all pupils, we take into account the individual needs which can change if, as often happens, sight deteriorate. Braille, Keyboard Skills and Information Technology are taught to meet individual needs. Information Technology is offered as a discrete subject but students are also provided with useful work methods, using appropriate hardware and software.