Learning braille

Anyone can learn braille and, like anything else, the more you practice, the better you get. We offer a range of courses and training sessions, as well as some free resources and fun introductions to braille.

RNIB believes braille is a vital tool for anyone who is blind or partially sighted. Whatever age you are, why not give learning braille a go.


Don't just take our word for it that learning braille is worth it. Listen to what braille users of all ages say about how they found learning braille:


Ways to learn braille

Learning the braille code is relatively simple, although it can take a while to train your fingers to sense the dots by touch.

Whether you are learning braille for yourself or to support someone else, we have resources that can help you.

Our learning section has a wealth of information about learning braille and the courses and support we can provide, including learning resources for both touch and sight learners.

Losing your sight?

If you're losing your sight and you're considering learning braille, we'd recommend that you learn braille by touch rather than by sight.

If you need support coming to terms with your sight condition, you can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999.

Braille or Moon?

Moon is an alternative to braille. It uses raised shapes to represent letters and words. It can be considered easier to learn than braille, especially for those who lose their sight later in life.

It can also be useful for people who have sight loss and learning difficulties.

Try braille for yourself

(All the 'Try braille' links are to websites outside RNIB's website.)

Braille alphabet card

The braille alphabet card shows the embossed braille alphabet, punctuation marks and numbers, together with the print translation. You can order one free copy of the English card from our online shop or by calling 0303 123 9999. If you want multiple copies of the card there will be a small charge. For details of the Welsh alphabet card, please call 0303 123 9999.

Last updated: 10 February 2011

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Right now we can only reach one in three of the people who need our help most.

Please make a donation and help us support more blind and partially sighted people.

Learning braille factsheet

Everything you ever wanted to know about learning braille, in one handy document.

Related information

Braille codes

Uncontracted braille (grade one) and contracted braille (grade two) are the two levels of braille code used in the UK. There are also specialist braille codes, covering things like maths and music.