30th November, 2021
Taking into consideration national and government guidance in relation to the developing Covid-19 pandemic, it is expected that people wear face masks on all public transportation, in enclosed spaces, and in situations where they may not be able to adhere to social distancing precautions.
According to Public Health England, UK cases are rising again, particularly in relation to the new variant, Omicron. Given the newest developments, it is extremely important that we continue to proceed with caution and take all possible measures to safeguard our learners and staff.
All learners and staff will continue to be required to wear face masks whilst in the Academy and adhere to social distancing measures.
Learners are expected to carry on with their lessons and take part in activities during their normal timetabled hours and full attendance remains mandatory. We continue to monitor the attendance and participation of our learners, as well as offer full individualised support and access to pastoral care so that they continue to work towards their qualifications.
We regard the safety of its learners and staff as paramount, and we are continually consulting Government guidelines for how to conduct learning safely. We are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to adapt to the situation and provide regular updates.
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Outside periods of national lockdown, we are operating face-to-face learning for the 2021 academic year, in line with continued advice from the UK Government and Public Health England. Courses are being run with a blended online/offline delivery method to ensure the health and safety of learners while still allowing them to acquire practical skills in the workshop with the same amount of time at the bench. To help minimise the risk of increasing Covid-19 infection rates, the numbers of learners present within the college are controlled and limited to ensure social distancing.
We have undertaken the appropriate risk assessments and continues to prioritise the health and welfare of students and staff.
What our students say
Although this academic year has brought with it extra health and safety regulations and concerns, our tutors and students have more than risen to the occasion and are embracing our social distancing and blended learning system.
“For me personally it’s working good so far with the help of the tutors and (everyone) taking care… I’m enjoying it,” said Jewellery Fundamentals student Abdul about how the term is going.
