Nelson and Colne College moves to online teaching

Robust online distance learning plans for full-time students, to support the best continuity possible in their studies, have been rolled out by the colleges following the Government’s announcement on Wednesday that schools and colleges are to stop face-to-face teaching due to the spread of the coronavirus disease.

Special consideration on the impact of this on the college’s most vulnerable students and families is now being made too. Exceptional support arrangements are being put in place, including the continuation of free college meals for those eligible, and confirmation of special support arrangements will be made directly with affected students and families.

With the cancellation of summer exams, college students are being advised to continue working hard in their studies to demonstrate further progress to their tutors up to the normal exam period, in anticipation of further guidance from the Government around how qualifications will be awarded.

Principal Amanda Melton said: “I’d like to thank everyone across Nelson and Colne College Group for their extraordinary support and efforts for students and each other in the last two weeks in very difficult circumstances. It has been very challenging both operationally and emotionally.

“We know how hard our students and staff have worked to prepare for exams so far, and we understand the distress the uncertainty is causing. We are seeking urgent clarification on how our students will achieve their qualifications.

“Our primary concern is always the wellbeing of our students and staff, especially those most vulnerable. We therefore strongly encourage everyone to follow the Government guidance to limit social contact and to self-isolate when appropriate. On that basis, we do not expect our students to socialise in groups when they are not at college.

“We are also striving to continue to provide our students with the very best teaching and learning that we can remotely, despite these unprecedented circumstances.”

Concerned parents and students can follow the latest information via the Nelson and Colne College and Accrington and Rossendale College websites and social media channels (Facebook and Twitter).