COVID-19 Advice

Burnley College would like to thank all our students, apprentices and business customers for their patience and support during these unprecedented times.

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Updates

The College is continuing to monitor the very latest Government advice and guidance relating to Covid-19 and takes the safety and protection of all our students, apprentices, visitors and staff extremely seriously.

Our managers, tutors, trainers and support staff are available to assist you with any queries you may have, whether you are a current student, apprentice or applicant. You can contact us on 01282 733333 or email [email protected].

We are here to support you every step of the way to make your dreams come true and ensure you have the opportunity to shape your own future.

Government guidance on Covid protection measures changes today.

In line with the latest advice, from today, all learners, staff and visitors:

Will no longer be required to wear a face covering in College. However, the Government suggests everyone continue to wear a face covering in crowded or enclosed spaces or where they are coming into contact with other people they do not normally meet.

All members of the Burnley College family and visitors are still asked to play their part in preventing the spread of Covid by:

Continuing to take regular Lateral Flow Tests and recording the results with the NHS.
Staying away from Campus if their Lateral Flow Test is positive or they display any symptoms of Covid or its variants, including a new continuous cough, raised temperature, loss of sense of taste/smell
Maintaining a safe distance from others – 2m is recommended
Using the hand sanitiser stations located around the Campus
Washing their hands more frequently and for longer (20 seconds is recommended).

The health and wellbeing of all members of the Burnley College family remains of paramount importance. Extra safety precautions have been implemented from the beginning of the pandemic and will continue to be implemented and reviewed for as long as it takes to overcome this virus globally.

We also continue to closely monitor the latest Public Health England guidance and act accordingly.

Following the announcement on Wednesday that England will be moving to ‘Plan B’ to tackle the rising number of Covid-19 cases related to Omicron, College has reviewed its current control measures and made changes which will be implemented from Monday, 13 December, 2021, and continue on our return after the Christmas break on Tuesday, 4 January 2022.

These are:

Wear a face covering (unless exempt) in all communal areas of college
Wear a face covering in all classroom, laboratory and workshop lessons (unless exempt)
Up to 4 people can use the lifts at any one time (face masks must be worn)
Maintain a safe distance from others where possible (2m is recommended)
Wherever possible, reduce the amount of travel around the building.
Use the hand sanitiser stations located around Campus
Continue to wash your hands more frequently and for at least 20 seconds
Stay away from the Campus if displaying any Covid symptoms – a new, continuous cough, raised temperature and loss of sense of smell and/or taste.

As always, the health and wellbeing of all learners, staff, visitors and the wider community is of paramount importance to us and we will continue to monitor the very latest updates from Public Health England as we have throughout the pandemic.

The protection of all learners, staff, visitors, stakeholders and the wider community remains at the heart of Burnley College’s response to Covid-19.

This week, the Government announced tighter Covid restrictions, including the mandatory wearing of face coverings on public transport and in shops.

As a College community we still require the wearing of face coverings at all times in all communal/public areas of our Campus, unless exempt. Face coverings are available throughout College.

It is also essential to take regular rapid lateral flow tests (available in College) and record the results with the NHS.

All members of the College community are asked to strictly adhere to the latest Government announcements regarding the wearing of face coverings on public transport and in shops to help stop the spread of variants of the virus.

We also ask that everyone continues to use the hand sanitiser stations around College; keep left when moving around the Campus; limit the number of passengers in lifts and maintain a safe distance from others. It is important to continue catching coughs and sneezes safely, as well as washing hands more frequently, for at least 20 seconds.

It is vital that no one displaying Covid-19 symptoms – a new, continuous cough, high temperature and loss of sense of taste/small – enters College.

Please continue to follow all updates and guidance given by the College and, on Campus, act proactively and positively when asked by a member of staff to take appropriate Covid-19 protection measures as detailed above.

The College is monitoring the latest advice and guidance and acting in the best interests of the College community and will continue to do so.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding as we work together to combat Covid-19.

Burnley College continues to place the health, safety and wellbeing of Learners, Staff and Visitors at the heart of everything we do.

We continue to follow Covid-19 guidance issued by the Government and Public Health England and monitor any spread of the virus within the area.

In order to maintain the safety of Learners and Staff, face coverings should still be worn in College at all times in communal/public areas, unless exempt. Face coverings are available throughout College.

All members of the College community are required to take regular rapid lateral flow tests (available in College) and record their results with the NHS.

It is important to continue catching coughs and sneezes safely, as well as washing hands more frequently, for at least 20 seconds.

Please continue to follow all updates and guidance given by the College.

The College is monitoring the latest advice and guidance and acting in the best interests of the College community.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding as we work together to combat Covid-19.

At Burnley College, the safety of every member of our College community – and the wider community – is of paramount importance.

We continue to strictly follow Covid-19 guidance issued by the Government and Public Health England and monitor any spread of the virus within the area.

In order to maintain the safety of all Learners and Staff as we move through the Government’s national roadmap to recovery, we have taken the decision to continue with our present, full Covid-19 protection guidelines in College.

This means that face coverings should still be worn in College at all times, unless exempt. A mask must also be worn beneath face shields. This applies to all Learners, Staff and Visitors.

We also ask that everyone continues to use the hand sanitiser stations around College and continues to maintain a 2m social distance from others while on the Campus.

We feel the best way to protect the entire Burnley College family and our local community is to maintain full protective measures at this current time.

Of course, this decision is being constantly reviewed, and any changes will be immediately communicated directly.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding as we work together to halt the spread of Covid-19.

In light of the UK government determining that both GCSE and A Level examinations will not go ahead this year and will be replaced by Teacher Assessed Grades, you may be wondering how this will affect your young person and what the process will be.

Burnley College are here to make sure you are well-informed every step of the way and so we have spent time explaining to students the processes that will be followed and what this means for them and their future grades and now wish to share the same information with you. To support Parents and Guardians through understanding this year’s grading process we are inviting you to book onto our live, virtual, information session where we will be discussing Teacher Assessed Grades and giving you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

Join our live session on Monday 10^th May at 6pm by visiting the link below. If you are not be able to attend live, the session will be recorded and shared with you after the event.

https://bit.ly/3h2StzN

Following the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the UK government has decided that the Summer 2021 examination series will not go ahead as planned. Instead, your teachers will determine your grades, based upon a range of evidence in line with JCQ and exam board requirements, which will then be verified by internal quality measures at College.

Ofqual, JCQ and all awarding bodies have been working hard in light of the government’s announcement to outline what this means for you, your teachers, and for College, which has now been released. Please find below an overview of the most important information that you and your parents or guardians need to know about how your grades will be awarded this summer.

How will you be assessed?

Your teachers will initially determine your grades in GCSE Maths and English. Your teachers know you. They know the passion you have for your studies. They recognise the determination and focus you have shown and the progress you have made. Their assessment matters and will help to shape your future as you continue your studies and in your next steps after Burnley College.

Your teachers’ professional judgement will be based only on what you have been taught and they will use a range of evidence from across the course of study to make this decision. This will include:

Records of your performance on the content you have been taught over the entire course of your studies
Assessment Grades

In most cases, the range of evidence that your teachers use to inform your grade will be consistent across your class or cohort for each qualification. However, your school or college may decide that a different range of evidence may be more appropriate to fairly inform your grade, if, for example, you have missed significantly more teaching than others in your class.

If you have special educational needs, and/or are disabled, and require reasonable adjustments, your school or college should have ensured that these were in place when evidence was gathered. Where appropriate reasonable adjustments were not in place when you took an assessment that is being used as evidence, your teacher should take that into account when determining your grade. Special consideration requests will not apply in the usual way this summer because you will not be taking exams. If you think that your performance in an assessment has been affected by illness or personal circumstances, you should talk to your tutor about this as soon as possible. It is important that you raise any such instances before your school or college submits your grade.

The most recently released JCQ and Ofqual guidance outline the need to include a range of evidence, including evidence gained in the coming weeks. Having thoroughly reviewed the most recent guidance, we want to ensure you have been given every opportunity to showcase the full breadth of your knowledge, understanding, progress and hard work in your GCSEs at the latest possible point in the year, assessed against the most up-to-date guidance material from each of the exam boards that has been released throughout March and April.

To ensure you have had the best opportunity to do this there will be an Assessment Week that will take place Monday 10th May – Friday 14th May.

This assessment week has been designed to help reinforce the progress you have made through all your hard work during the remote learning period, but also to capitalise on the return to face-to-face learning and allow you to demonstrate further improvement following the support and feedback from your previous assessments.

We also want to reassure you that this is not a mock exam week, and the assessments are not formal exams nor are they designed to play the role of end-of-year exams that will determine completely your final grade. They will be one piece of evidence which is considered, but that will have been undertaken in light of guidance and training from JCQ and all the awarding bodies (e.g. grade descriptors, additional assessment materials) to ensure that your work is being measured closely against the most recently released expectations of the exam boards, and where we have supported you to fully understand these expectations and guidance.

No single piece of evidence will necessarily be more important than another, as teachers will be assessing you based on a range of evidence that can give an overall picture of your performance. It is important to remember that your grade will represent a holistic, objective judgement based on the evidence of your performance across your course of study.

How will my grade be determined?

Once all the evidence is selected and assessments are complete, teachers will decide on an overall grade. They will do this objectively in line with JCQ, Ofqual and awarding bodies guidance.

It is important to say that much like with exams in normal years, the grades issued by teachers, schools and colleges will not take account of your potential. They will be a snapshot of the standard you are performing at based on a wide range of evidence. It should be no easier or harder for you to achieve a grade this year based on your performance than in previous years.

What happens after my teacher determines my grade in a subject?

Once a teacher has determined your grade, it will then be reviewed in line with College’s rigorous internal quality assurance processes, which will be checked externally by exam boards. Your teachers will not be able to tell you the grade they have submitted to the exam board.

When will I received my grades and what happens next?

We are looking forward to celebrating all your hard work with you on the following dates:

AS and A Level students will receive their results on Tuesday 10 August 2021.
GCSE students will receive their results on Thursday 12 August 2021.

As always, your teachers and tutors are here for you to answer any queries you may have and also to give you the support and guidance you need at this important time. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with them.

The below communication has been shared with our A Level students this week, via Google Classroom.

Following the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the UK government has decided that the Summer 2021 examination series will not go ahead as planned. Instead, your subject teachers will determine your grades, based upon a range of evidence in line with JCQ and exam board requirements, which will then be verified by internal quality measures at College.

Ofqual, JCQ and all awarding bodies have been working hard in light of the government’s announcement to outline what this means for you, your subject teachers, and for College, which has now been released. Please find below an overview of the most important information that you and your parents or guardians need to know about how your grades will be awarded this summer.

How will you be assessed?

Your subject teachers will initially determine your grades in each of your A Level subjects. Your subject teachers know you. They know the passion you have for your studies. They recognise the determination and focus you have shown and the progress you have made. Their assessment matters and will help to shape your future as you continue your studies and in your next steps after Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.

Your subject teachers’ professional judgement will be based only on what you have been taught and they will use a range of evidence from across the course of study to make this decision. This will include:

Records of your performance on the content you have been taught over the entire course of your studies
Formal Assessment Grades
Non-exam assessment (NEA), often referred to as coursework or portfolios, even if you have not fully completed it

What do I need to think about?

In most cases, the range of evidence that your subject teachers use to inform your grade will be consistent across your class or cohort for each qualification. However, you may think that a different range of evidence may be more appropriate to fairly inform your grade, if, for example, you have missed significantly more teaching than others in your class. If you think that your performance in an assessment has been affected by illness or personal circumstances, you should talk to your personal tutor about this as soon as possible. It is important that you raise any such instances before your grades are submitted.

If you have special educational needs, and/or are disabled, and require reasonable adjustments, your subject teachers should have ensured that these were in place when evidence was gathered. If you are concerned that appropriate reasonable adjustments were not in place when you took an assessment that is being used as evidence, again please raise this with your personal tutor.

What is the Context for Formal 7?

At the start of the Easter break JCQ released updated guidance to schools and colleges outlining the need to include a range of evidence, which included evidence of student performance gained in the coming months. Having thoroughly reviewed the most recent guidance, we want to ensure you have been given every opportunity to showcase the full breadth of your knowledge, understanding, progress and hard work in each of your A Level subjects at the latest possible point in the year, assessed against the most up-to-date guidance material from each of the exam boards that has been released throughout March and April.

To ensure you have had the best opportunity to do this there will be a Formal 7 Assessment Period that will take place Monday 17th May – Friday 21st May. This assessment period has been designed to help reinforce the progress you have made through all your hard work during the remote learning period, but also to capitalise on the return to face-to-face learning and allow you to demonstrate further improvement following the support and feedback from your Formal 6 assessments.

We also want to reassure you that this is not a mock exam period, and Formal 7 assessments are not formal exams nor are they designed to play the role of end-of-year exams that would determine completely your final grade. Formal 7 is one piece of evidence which is considered, but that will have been undertaken in light of guidance and training from JCQ and all the awarding bodies (e.g. grade descriptors, additional assessment materials) to ensure that your work is being measured closely against the most recently released expectations of the exam boards, and where we have supported you to fully understand these expectations and guidance.

No single piece of evidence will necessarily be more important than another, as subject teachers will be assessing you based on a range of evidence that can give an overall picture of your performance. It is important to remember that your grade will represent a holistic, objective judgement based on the evidence of your performance across your course of study.

How will my grade be determined?

Once all the evidence is selected and assessments are complete, your subject teachers will decide on an overall grade. They will do this objectively in line with JCQ, Ofqual and awarding bodies guidance.

It is important to say that much like with exams in normal years, the grades issued by subject teachers, schools and colleges will not take account of your potential. They will be a snapshot of the standard you are performing at based on a wide range of evidence. It should be no easier or harder for you to achieve a grade this year based on your performance than in previous years.

What happens after my teacher determines my grade in a subject?

Once a subject teacher has determined your grade, it will then be reviewed in line with College’s rigorous internal quality assurance processes, which will be checked externally by exam boards. Your subject teachers will not be able to tell you the grade they have submitted to the exam board.

When will I receive my grades?

We are looking forward to celebrating all your hard work with you on the following dates:

AS and A Level students will receive their results on Tuesday 10 August 2021.
GCSE students will receive their results on Thursday 12 August 2021.

As always, your subject teachers and personal tutors are here for you to answer any queries you may have and also to give you the support and guidance you need at this important time. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with them.

As your son or daughter has returned to College over the last few weeks they will no doubt have undertaken a Lateral Flow Test (LFT), which enables us to test everyone, even without any symptoms. Where students have undertaken three of these tests at College we are now able to provide Home Testing Kits (HTKs), supplied by the Department for Education, so that this process can be done in their own home, and doesn’t require them to come to the mass testing centre.

Up to one third of people who have coronavirus are asymptomatic. By continuing to this next stage of testing we will continue to help to reduce the spread in College through asymptomatic transmission. We are therefore strongly encouraging those returning to College take part in this testing programme.

Plan for Home Testing

Any student who has undertaken three or more LFT’s in College will be invited to collect their HTK from a central location. This will be done either through the mass testing centre as the student completes their third test, or, where they have previously completed their third test, through an invite to a specific location on campus to collect their test kits.

How the tests work

Students will be sent a Privacy Notice regarding the recording of their data as the tests are registered, as well as guidance on how to register their results through the College systems. Each student will be issued around 6 weeks worth of tests, with two tests to be taken per week, as well instructions as to how to take and register the tests with the NHS.

Your son or daughter can access the College HTK Registration System via their OnePlace homepage through a button on the home page.

When they click this button they will be taken to a page that automatically knows who they are from their initial login details. This page is where they will register their test result.

The HTKs are quick and easy to undertake, following the same practice as those taken in College, using a swab of the nose and throat. Your son or daughter can also access a video on how to take the test here – https://youtu.be/S9XR8RZxKNo

Results will need to be shared directly, and confidentially, with the College, with the logging process accessible through OnePlace. Students are also advised to register their results with the online NHS system. Tests are free of charge.

What if I test positive?

If your son or daughter tests positive on a HTK, they will need to self-isolate for 10 days, inform College via their tutor, and follow the guidance from NHS Test and Trace.

What happens if the test is negative?

While a small number of students may need to repeat the test if the first test was invalid or void for some reason, students who record a negative test will be able to continue to study in College, in line with their timetable, and resume their activities as normal.

What if staff or students have been in close contact with someone in College who tests positive?

The staff member or student will be notified that they are a close contact by the College and will need to self-isolate for 10 days in line with Government guidance.

What if I develop symptoms?

This home testing programme is for people with no symptoms. If your son or daughter develops symptoms at any time (including a high temperature; a new, continuous cough; or a loss or change to their sense of smell or taste) they must immediately self-isolate and book a test by calling 119 or visiting https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test.

We will support your son or daughter throughout this process, but please contact your son or daughter’s tutor if you have any questions at all.

As we head into the weekend I wanted to update you on the progress being made to return to face to face teaching following Monday night’s announcement by the Government. The whole College Management Team, and your tutors, have been working to identify the safest, and most effective way to get you back in the building in some way over the next few weeks.

We are now finalising the last details of the plan to date, and will issue this to you all as early as possible next week, alongside some practical answers to questions you will undoubtedly have when looking at this new phase of your education. In the meantime please be assured that all steps taken have been carefully considered and are in line with advice from the wide range of sources we have rigorously followed throughout this pandemic.

Our commitment to your wellbeing and safety will not change throughout these next stages and we are taking all relevant actions to ensure your safe return and that of our staff in accordance with this guidance.

I would like to remind you, that should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your tutors who are on hand, as always, to help.

Thank you again for the kindness and support that you continue to show your fellow learners and tutors as we continue to navigate this global pandemic Your professional, proactive and positive approach to continuously go above and beyond in your learning has once again reminded me why Burnley College students stand out above all others.

Karen Buchanan
Principal

Monday night’s announcements detailing the Governments proposed road map to take us out of the current restrictions will no doubt have left you all feeling optimistic about the future, with visions of a return to elements of life pre-Covid. It will also no doubt have made you think about the implications of schools and colleges returning to face to face teaching from 8 March.

Please be assured that we have, and will continue to, work towards a safe and secure return to face to face teaching. We are now working through the guidance issued, following these announcements, to ensure we are able to provide you all with the most up to date, and appropriate plan to ensure you. our learners, can return to campus as safely and effectively as possible.

As soon as we have further details we will provide an update. In the meantime please remember that throughout this pandemic we, as a College, have been strictly adhering to advice from:

Public Health England
the Department for Education
Lancashire County Council
the Education and Skills Funding Agency
East Lancashire Health Care Trust,

to implement significant safety controls and protective measures to keep everyone safe in our College.

Our commitment to your wellbeing and safety will not change throughout these next stages and we will take all relevant actions to ensure the safe return of our learners and our staff in accordance with this guidance.

We will be in touch with you directly over the coming days to let you know what your return will look like, and your tutors are on hand, as always, to answer any of your questions or queries.

Can I once again say how proud I, and all my colleagues, are of everything you have achieved so far in 2021. You have continued to study hard, produce amazing work and engage with online learning. You have shown the commitment, resilience and motivation that sets you apart from the rest: qualities which will serve you well throughout your life. I am also immensely proud of the kindness and support that you continue to show your fellow students and others during this difficult time.

Thank you, and we will be in touch with you directly with further updates.

Karen Buchanan
Principal

Dear Student

I’d like to personally welcome you back to your studies at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre after the half-term break. I trust you had the opportunity to relax, enjoy some quality time with your family and focus on your wellbeing.

The first weeks of 2021 have been challenging for us all. Lockdown has continued and the news has been full of the impact that Covid-19 continues to have. Although the amazing work of our scientists in creating a vaccine gives us renewed hope for a return to ‘normality’.

I’m proud of everything you, as a Burnley College Sixth Form Centre student, have achieved so far in 2021, in a very difficult half term. You have continued to study hard, produce amazing work and engage with online learning. You have shown the commitment, resilience and motivation that sets you apart from the rest: qualities which will serve you well throughout your life.

I understand that uncertainty over you final grades or assessments is worrying. I can reassure you that we are working closely with exam boards and Government bodies to get the answers you need and put processes in place to ensure you get the results that reflect your dedication to your studies. As soon as we have the information, we will be in touch with you directly. In the meantime, thank you for your patience and understanding.

As a College, we are awaiting direction from the Government on any proposed return to Campus for students and staff. We will let you know what is happening as soon as possible via email. Whatever our return to Campus looks like, I can personally assure you that your safety and wellbeing continues to be of paramount importance – as it has always been. Our safety measures are as strong and effective as they can possibly be, and we have continued to rely on the expertise of independent professional Health and Safety advisors throughout the pandemic. Since March 2020 we have followed all Covid-19 guidance from Public Health England, the Department for Education, Lancashire County Council, the Education and Skills Funding Agency and the East Lancashire Health Care Trust.

We recognise that your emotional health and wellbeing may also have been impacted by Covid-19 and the restrictions and uncertainty you have faced over such a long time. That’s why I would like to remind you that we are always here to support you. You can talk to your individual Tutors about any concerns you may have – academic or personal, Our togetherall online support platform is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering a chance to share any worries you may have anonymously and access useful online workshops to help you work through issues such as dealing with anxiety, grief and stress. You can join the togetherall community using a Burnley postcode. For those who don’t live in Burnley you can use the College postcode BB12 0AN. Please don’t hesitate to contact Student Services on [email protected] for the full range of easy-to-access support services we offer.

Plus, our Student Services team themselves have launched a great programme of weekly extra-curricular activities for you to enjoy online – including several to help you manage your mental health, such as Mindfulness and Chatty Café. You will have already been told about these via your Google Classroom and there really is something for everyone – from free fitness classes to debating, computer games to charity work. Why not revisit the weekly programme and keep your eyes peeled for weekly specials and some great competitions, too?

Over the coming days and weeks we will all know more about how we can consign Covid-19 to the history books. Spring is just round the corner with lighter nights, better weather and nature springing to life again all around us. I trust that we all, too, can face the coming weeks and months with a new sense of optimism.

We have got this far by working together, by supporting each other and showing each other kindness and compassion. Together we will overcome any hurdle in our way. Together we will make it through this.

Karen Buchanan
Principal

Dear Parent

As the country approaches the next stage of its journey to recovery after Covid-19, I would like to take the opportunity, as Principal of Burnley College Sixth Form Centre, to share my pride with you in all our amazing students have achieved so far in 2021. And I’d also like to reassure you about the resources we continue to have in place to safeguard and support each and every one of them over the important weeks and months to come.

The first weeks of 2021 have certainly been challenging for us all. Lockdown has continued and the news has been full of the impact that Covid-19 continues to have. Although the amazing work of our scientists in creating a vaccine gives us renewed hope for a return to ‘normality’.

I’m proud of everything our Burnley College Sixth Form Centre students have achieved in the first half-term of 2021. They have continued to study hard, produce amazing work and actively engage with their Tutors and online learning. They have shown the commitment, resilience and motivation that sets them apart from the rest: qualities which will serve them well throughout their life.

Burnley College Sixth Form Centre is recognised nationally as a leader in the provision of online teaching and learning and we continue to constantly adapt and improve our provision to ensure your son or daughter receives the outstanding learning experience – and individual support – they deserve.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the support you have given them to continue their learning online: it is truly invaluable. If there is any way in which you feel we could improve the teaching and learning experience for your individual son or daughter – including the provision of additional resources, IT equipment or data – please do not hesitate to contact their Tutor.

I understand that uncertainty over final grades or assessments is worrying for students and parents/carers alike. I can reassure you that we are working closely with exam boards and Government bodies to get the answers needed and put processes in place to ensure students receive the results that reflect their dedication to their studies. As soon as we have the information, we will be in touch directly. In the meantime, thank you for your patience and understanding.

As a College, we are awaiting direction from the Government on any proposed return to Campus for students and staff. We will let you know what is happening as soon as possible. Whatever our return to Campus looks like, I can personally assure you that your safety and wellbeing continues to be of paramount importance – as it has always been. Our safety measures are as strong and effective as they can possibly be, and we have continued to rely on the expertise of independent professional Health and Safety advisors throughout the pandemic. Since March 2020 we have followed all Covid-19 guidance from Public Health England, the Department for Education, Lancashire County Council, the Education and Skills Funding Agency and the East Lancashire Health Care Trust.

We recognise that students’ emotional health and wellbeing may also have been impacted by Covid-19 and the restrictions and uncertainty they have faced for so long. At Burnley College Sixth Form Centre we have a comprehensive range of support services and resources which can be easily accessed by all students, including togetherall, an online support platform available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering anonymous peer support and access to useful online workshops to work through common issues such as dealing with anxiety, grief and stress. Tutors are always available to talk to students individually about any academic – or pastoral – concerns. For information on how we can support your son or daughter – or signpost to external resources – please don’t hesitate to contact Student Services on [email protected].

Plus, our Student Services team themselves have launched a great programme of weekly extra-curricular activities for students to enjoy online – including several to help them manage their mental health, such as Mindfulness and Chatty Café. Students have been informed of these activities via their Google Classroom and there really is something for everyone – from free fitness classes to debating, computer games to charity work. We would like to encourage all students to take part – it’s a great way to stay in touch with the wider College community; learn valuable new skills and create a healthy and much-needed study-life balance.

Karen Buchanan
Principal

Dear Apprentice

As the United Kingdom approaches the next stage of the journey in its roadmap to recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, I wanted to take the opportunity to keep in touch with you as a valued Themis at Burnley College Apprentice.

The first weeks of 2021 have been challenging for us all. Lockdown has continued and the news has been full of the impact that Covid-19 continues to have on our lives, both professionally and personally. Although the amazing work of our scientists in creating a vaccine gives us renewed hope for a return to ‘normality’.

I’m proud of everything you, as a Themis at Burnley College Apprentice, have achieved so far in 2021, in a very difficult time for industry. You have continued to give your all to your training; produce amazing work for your employer and be a driving force within the workplace. You have shown the commitment, resilience and motivation that sets you apart from the rest: qualities which will serve you well throughout your career.

I understand that any remaining uncertainty over your Apprenticeship assessments is worrying. I can reassure you that we are working closely with national trade bodies; skills agencies and the Government to get the answers you need and put processes in place to ensure you get the results that reflect your dedication.

As a training provider, Themis is awaiting direction from the Government on any proposed return to Campus for Apprentices and staff. We will let you know what is happening as soon as possible via email. Whatever our return to Campus looks like, I can personally assure you that your safety and wellbeing continues to be of paramount importance – as it has always been. Our safety measures are as strong and effective as they can possibly be, and we have continued to rely on the expertise of independent professional Health and Safety advisors throughout the pandemic. Since March 2020 we have followed all Covid-19 guidance from Public Health England, the Department for Education, Lancashire County Council, the Education and Skills Funding Agency and the East Lancashire Health Care Trust.

We recognise that your emotional health and wellbeing may also have been impacted by Covid-19 and the restrictions and uncertainty you have faced over such a long period. That’s why I would like to remind you of the many support services and resources available to you as a Themis Apprentice, including our togetherall online support platform (available 24 hours a day, seven days a week), to share your feelings and access useful online workshops to help you work through issues such as dealing with anxiety, grief and stress. You can join the togetherall community using a Burnley postcode. For those who don’t live in Burnley you can use the College postcode BB12 0AN. Please don’t hesitate to contact your Trainer Assessor personally or Student Services on [email protected] for the full range of easy-to-access support services we offer.

Over the coming days and weeks we will all know more about how we can consign Covid-19 to the history books and industry can again move into top gear. The green shoots of recovery can already be seen in economic reports and forecasts and you have an important role to play in assisting your employer to bounce back stronger and more successful than ever.

Together we will continue to work together to ensure the North West retains its position as an industrial powerhouse in the post-Covid-19 era.

Neil Burrows
Assistant Principal

Dear Parent

As the country approaches the next stage of its journey to recovery after Covid-19, I would like to take the opportunity, as Director of Themis at Burnley College, to share my pride with you in all our outstanding Themis Apprentices have achieved so far in 2021. And I’d also like to reassure you about the resources we continue to have in place to safeguard and support each and every one of them over the important weeks and months to come.

The first weeks of 2021 have been challenging for us all. Lockdown has continued and the news has been full of the impact that Covid-19 continues to have on our lives and the industrial and economic landscape. Although the amazing work of our scientists in creating a vaccine gives us renewed hope for a return to ‘normality’.

I’m proud of everything our dedicated Themis Apprentices have achieved so far in 2021, in what is recognised as being a very difficult time for industry. They have continued to give their all to their training and development; produced amazing work for their employers and been a driving force within the workplace. They have shown the commitment, resilience and motivation that sets them apart from the rest: qualities which will serve them well throughout their career.

Burnley College is recognised nationally as a leader in the provision of online training and we continue to constantly adapt and improve our provision to ensure your son or daughter receives the outstanding training experience – and individual support – they deserve.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the support you have given them to continue their training online: it is truly invaluable. If there is any way in which you feel we could improve the digital training experience for your individual son or daughter – including the provision of additional resources, IT equipment or data – please do not hesitate to contact their Trainer.

I understand that any remaining uncertainty over Apprenticeship assessments is worrying for them and yourselves, as parents/carers. I can reassure you that we are working closely with national trade bodies; skills agencies and the Government to get the answers needed and put processes in place to ensure every Themis Apprentice gets the results that reflect their dedication.

As a training provider, Themis is awaiting direction from the Government on any proposed return to Campus for Apprentices and staff. We will let you know what is happening as soon as possible. Whatever our return looks like, I can personally assure you that the safety and wellbeing of Themis Apprentices and staff continues to be of paramount importance – as it was from day one of the pandemic. From March 2020, we have been continuously working with independent professional Health and Safety advisors, following all guidance from the Government, Public Health England and the Health and Safety Executive, to ensure our safety measures are as strong and effective as they can possibly be.

We recognise that Themis Apprentices’ emotional health and wellbeing may also have been impacted by Covid-19 and the restrictions and uncertainty they have faced for so long. That’s why I would like to highlight the many support services and resources available to them, including our togetherall online support platform (available 24 hours a day, seven days a week), to share any worries and access useful online workshops to work through issues such as dealing with anxiety, grief and stress. Trainers and Tutors are always available to deal with individual concerns, too. For information on how we can support your son or daughter – or signpost to external resources – please don’t hesitate to contact their Trainer or Student Services on [email protected].

Over the coming days and weeks we will all, hopefully, know more about how we can consign Covid-19 to the history books and industry can again move into top gear. The green shoots of recovery can already be seen in economic reports and forecasts and Themis Apprentices have an important role to play in assisting their employer to bounce back stronger and more successful than ever.

Together we can continue to work together to ensure the North West retains its position as an industrial powerhouse in the post-Covid-19 era.

Neil Burrows
Assistant Principal

Dear Learner

The first weeks of 2021 have been challenging for us all. Lockdown has continued and the news has been full of the impact that Covid-19 continues to have on all aspects of our lives, including our plans for the future. Although the amazing work of our scientists in creating a vaccine gives us renewed hope for a return to ‘normality’.

However, as Dean of Burnley College University Courses I would like to take the opportunity to keep in touch with you today to let you know how proud I am of everything you have achieved so far in this most challenging of years. You have continued to dedicate yourself to your degree-level studies, engage with Lecturers online and make significant progress towards your goals. You should be justly proud of the amazing commitment, resilience and motivation you have shown – character traits that will serve you well throughout your undergraduate studies and in your chosen pathway after university.

I understand that uncertainty over your grades is worrying – you have worked so hard to get this far and have ambitious plans for the future. I can reassure you that, with our university partners, we are working closely with exam boards and Government bodies to get the answers you need and put processes in place to ensure you get the results that reflect your dedication. As you will have seen, each of our partner universities have implemented their No Detriment Policy, and this has been shared with you via your Virtual Learning Environment. If you have any questions relating to this policy please do not hesitate to contact myself or any of your Tutors.

At Burnley College University Courses, we are awaiting direction from the Government on any proposed return to Campus for undergraduates and staff. We will let you know what is happening as soon as possible via email. Whatever our return to Campus looks like, I can personally assure you that your safety and wellbeing continues to be of paramount importance – as it has always been. Our safety measures are as strong and effective as they can possibly be, and we have continued to rely on the expertise of independent professional Health and Safety advisors throughout the pandemic. Since March 2020 we have followed all Covid-19 guidance from Public Health England, the Department for Education, Lancashire County Council, the Education and Skills Funding Agency and the East Lancashire Health Care Trust.

We recognise that your emotional health and wellbeing may also have been impacted by Covid-19 and the restrictions and uncertainty you have faced over such a long time. That’s why I would like to remind you that we are always here to support you. Our togetherall online support platform is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering a chance to share any worries you may have anonymously and access useful online workshops to help you work through issues such as dealing with anxiety, grief and stress. You can join the togetherall community using a Burnley postcode. For those who don’t live in Burnley you can use the College postcode BB12 0AN. Please don’t hesitate to contact Student Services on [email protected] for the full range of easy-to-access support services we offer.

Over the coming days and weeks we will all know more about how we can consign Covid-19 to the history books. Spring is just round the corner with lighter nights, better weather and nature springing to life again all around us. I know that we all, too, can face the coming weeks and months with a renewed sense of optimism.

We have got this far by working together, by supporting each other and showing each other kindness and compassion. Together we will overcome any hurdle in our way and achieve our goals. Together we will make it through this.

Emma Hurst
Dean of University Education

Dear Learner

I’d like to personally welcome you back to your studies at Burnley College after the half-term break. I trust you had the opportunity to relax, enjoy some quality time with your family and focus on your wellbeing.

I’m proud of everything you, as a Burnley College learner, have achieved so far in 2021, in a very difficult half term. You have continued to give your all to your studies, build your skills and knowledge and engage with online learning. You should be justly proud of the amazing commitment, resilience and motivation you have shown – character traits that will serve you well in whatever path you choose in future.

I understand that uncertainty over you final grades or assessments is worrying – you have worked so hard to get this far and have ambitious plans for the future. I can reassure you that we are working closely with exam boards and Government bodies to get the answers you need and put processes in place to ensure you get the results that reflect your dedication to your studies. As soon as we have the information, we will be in touch with you directly. In the meantime, thank you for your patience and understanding.

As a College, we are awaiting direction from the Government on any proposed return to Campus for learners and staff. We will let you know what is happening as soon as possible via email. Whatever our return to Campus looks like, I can personally assure you that your safety and wellbeing continues to be of paramount importance – as it has always been. Our safety measures are as strong and effective as they can possibly be, and we have continued to rely on the expertise of independent professional Health and Safety advisors throughout the pandemic. Since March 2020 we have followed all Covid-19 guidance from Public Health England, the Department for Education, Lancashire County Council, the Education and Skills Funding Agency and the East Lancashire Health Care Trust.

We recognise that your emotional health and wellbeing may also have been impacted by Covid-19 and the restrictions and uncertainty you have faced over such a long time. That’s why I would like to remind you that we are always here to support you. Our togetherall online support platform is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering a chance to share any worries you may have anonymously and access useful online workshops to help you work through issues such as dealing with anxiety, grief and stress. You can join the togetherall community using a Burnley postcode. For those who don’t live in Burnley you can use the College postcode BB12 0AN. Please don’t hesitate to contact Student Services on [email protected] for the full range of easy-to-access support services we offer.

Karen Buchanan
Principal

Dear Student,

as you are aware, so much has already changed nationally since our new term started this week, but I want to reassure you today that, in so many different ways, your outstanding Burnley College education experience remains the same. While you may be learning from home longer than originally thought; A Level and GCSE exams have once again been ‘cancelled’; and there is remaining uncertainty around Vocational exams, your time as a Burnley College student will still be as important, as engaging and as supportive as ever.

Your Tutors are committed to delivering high-quality education to you, whether that is in or out of the classroom. Our dedicated Student Services Team are committed to providing you with engaging and enriching activities to beat the boredom of lockdown, and to ensure you remain focussed on your personal, as well as your academic, development. Our specialist Health and Wellbeing Team are available to offer you the support you need to maintain your emotional wellbeing and stay positive throughout this period.

We fully understand what an unsettling time this is for you and we appreciate how concerned you must be about your future, but we also know that we have all been through this before, and we can all do it again. You achieved so much during the last period of home learning, whether that was at school or College, and you have continued on your educational journey to this point. Together we will ensure that journey is exciting, engaging and informative, and will leave you with the very best learning legacy possible during this tough time.

As you continue through your studies, your Tutors will be using these coming weeks and months to further enhance the already strong understanding they have of you as an individual – and your strengths and passions – and it is likely that this will be used in part to create your final grades this year. It is, therefore, important that you continue to proceed with your lessons as actively as you would within the classroom.

We know that you are so much more than your grades, and we are 100% committed to working with you to enhance your personal development, and support you through this period of uncertainty. We are here for you:

Your Tutors are available to offer you individual subject-specific support
Our friendly Student Services team offer additional advice and guidance – plus a range of exciting extra-curricular activities and resources delivered online
There is still access to togetherall – our online wellbeing portal offering peer support and workshops 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help you maintain your mental health and wellbeing. You can access this via your College email account at www.togetherall.com.

The national landscape regarding Covid-19 and how it is impacting on the education sector is constantly changing and we are monitoring that hour by hour. We will be in touch with you immediately with any important developments and make sure that you are in the strongest possible position going forward – whether that is through your university application or starting your career. We are looking forward to welcoming you back to our amazing Campus when Government guidelines allow, but always remember that you are still part of the Burnley College family while you are learning remotely and we are proud of all you are achieving – and will continue to achieve – during this time.

Dear Learner, as you are aware, so much has already changed nationally since our new term started this week, but I want to reassure you today that, in so many different ways, your outstanding Adult Learning at Burnley College education experience remains the same. While you may be learning from home longer than originally thought; GCSE exams have once again been ‘cancelled’; and there is remaining uncertainty around Technical and Vocational exams, your time as an Adult Learner at Burnley College will still be as important, as engaging and as supportive as ever.

Your Tutors are committed to delivering high-quality education to you, whether that is in or out of the classroom. Our dedicated Student Services Team are committed to providing you with engaging and enriching activities to beat the boredom of lockdown, and to ensure you remain focussed on your personal, as well as your academic, development. They are able to support you in finding help with any financial difficulties you may face during this period and our specialist Health and Wellbeing Team are available to offer you the support you need to maintain your emotional wellbeing and stay positive.

We fully understand what an unsettling time this is for you and we appreciate how concerned you must be about your future, but we also know that we have all been through this before, and we can all do it again. You will likely have undertaken some remote learning since starting your studies, this is no different. Together we will ensure that your educational journey is exciting, engaging and informative, and will leave you with the very best learning legacy possible during this tough time.

As you continue through your studies, your Tutors will be using these coming weeks and months to further enhance the already strong understanding they have of you as an individual – and your strengths and passions – in order to ensure you get the best possible education experience. It is, therefore, important that you continue to proceed with your studies as actively as you would within the classroom.

We know that you are so much more than your results, and we are 100% committed to working with you to enhance your personal development, and support you through this period of uncertainty. We are here for you:

Your Tutors are available to offer you individual subject-specific support
Our friendly Student Services team offer additional advice and guidance – plus a range of exciting extra-curricular activities and resources delivered online
There is still access to togetherall – our online wellbeing portal offering peer support and workshops 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help you maintain your mental health and wellbeing. You can access this via your College email account at www.togetherall.com.

Dear Learner, as you are aware, so much has already changed nationally since our new semester started this week, but I want to reassure you today that, in so many different ways, your outstanding Burnley College University Courses education experience remains the same. While you may be learning from home longer than originally thought; GCSE exams have once again been ‘cancelled’; and there is remaining uncertainty around University assessments and Vocational exams, your time as a Burnley College University Courses student will still be as important, as engaging and as supportive as ever.

Your Lecturers are committed to delivering high-quality university-level education to you, whether that is in or out of the classroom. Our dedicated Student Services Team are committed to providing you with engaging and enriching activities to beat the boredom of lockdown, and to ensure you remain focussed on your personal, as well as your academic, development. They are able to support you in finding help with any financial difficulties you may face during this period and our specialist Health and Wellbeing Team are available to offer you the support you need to maintain your emotional wellbeing and stay positive throughout this period.

We fully understand what an unsettling time this is for you and we appreciate how concerned you must be about your future, but we also know that we have all been through this before, and we can all do it again. You will likely have undertaken some remote learning since starting your studies, this is no different. Together we will ensure that your educational journey is exciting, engaging and informative, and will leave you with the very best learning legacy possible during this tough time.

As you continue through your studies, your Lecturers will be using these coming weeks and months to further enhance the already strong understanding they have of you as an individual – and your strengths and passions – in order to ensure you get the best possible education experience. It is, therefore, important that you continue to proceed with your studies as actively as you would within the classroom.

Your Lecturers are available to offer you individual subject-specific support
Our friendly Student Services team offer additional advice and guidance – plus a range of exciting extra-curricular activities and resources delivered online
There is still access to togetherall – our online wellbeing portal offering peer support and workshops 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help you maintain your mental health and wellbeing. You can access this via your Burnley College University Courses email account at www.togetherall.com.

The national landscape regarding Covid-19 and how it is impacting on the education sector is constantly changing and we are monitoring that hour by hour. We will be in touch with you immediately with any important developments and make sure that you are in the strongest possible position going forward – whether that is through your progression to further university-level study or starting your career. We are looking forward to welcoming you back to our amazing Campus when Government guidelines allow, but always remember that you are still part of the Burnley College University Courses family while you are learning remotely and we are proud of all you are achieving – and will continue to achieve – during this time.

Dear Apprentice, as you are aware, so much has already changed nationally since our new term started this week, but I want to reassure you today that, in so many different ways, your outstanding Themis at Burnley College training experience remains the same. While you may be learning from home longer than originally thought; GCSE and A Level exams have once again been ‘cancelled’; and there is remaining uncertainty around Technical and Vocational exams, your time as a Themis at Burnley College Apprentice will still be as important, as engaging and as supportive as ever.

Your Tutors and Trainers are committed to delivering high-quality education to you, whether that is in or out of the classroom or workshop. Our dedicated Student Services Team are committed to providing you with engaging and enriching activities to beat the boredom of lockdown, and to ensure you remain focussed on your personal, as well as your academic, development. Our specialist Health and Wellbeing Team are available to offer you the support you need to maintain your emotional wellbeing and stay positive throughout this period.

We fully understand what an unsettling time this is for you and we appreciate how concerned you must be about your future, but we also know that we have all been through this before, and we can all do it again. You achieved so much during the last period of home learning, whether that was at school, College or in the workplace, and you have continued on your training journey to this point. Together we will ensure that journey is exciting, engaging and informative, and will leave you with the very best training and learning legacy possible during this tough time.

As you continue through your training, our staff will be using these coming weeks and months to further enhance the already strong understanding they have of you as an individual – and your strengths and passions – and it is likely that this will be used in part to create your final grades this year. It is, therefore, important that you continue to proceed with your training as actively as you would within the classroom or workshop.

Your Tutors and Trainers are available to offer you individual subject-specific support
Our friendly Student Services team offer additional advice and guidance – plus a range of exciting extra-curricular activities and resources delivered online
There is still access to togetherall – our online wellbeing portal offering peer support and workshops 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help you maintain your mental health and wellbeing. You can access this via your College email account at www.togetherall.com.

The national landscape regarding Covid-19 and how it is impacting the education and training sector is constantly changing and we are monitoring that hour by hour. We will be in touch with you immediately with any important developments and make sure that you are in the strongest possible position going forward – whether that is starting your career or through your university application. We are looking forward to welcoming you back to our amazing Campus when Government guidelines allow, but always remember that you are still part of the Themis at Burnley College family while you are learning remotely and we are proud of all you are achieving – and will continue to achieve – during this time.

Happy New Year

The announcement by the Secretary of State for Education on Wednesday this week changed the plans for the return of learners to secondary schools and colleges in England. This has understandably caused some confusion.

Please be assured Burnley College will be open on Monday 4 January 2021, however the bulk of learning will take place remotely and details of these arrangements will be available on Google Classroom.

For those learners who have exams or planned exam preparation sessions taking place during the next few weeks it is important that you check Google Classroom to confirm the relevant dates and times and attend those in College, as expected.

For those learners with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), the College will be open to you as previously stated from Wednesday 6 January, and your Tutors will be keeping you regularly updated.

Your Tutors will provide further updates to you directly, as the situation develops further and we have more information to provide.

Please be assured your safety and an outstanding education is our priority and we are working hard to ensure the best experience for you at this time.

We look forward to seeing you back on campus as soon as we possibly can and send best wishes to you and your families for the New Year.

Karen Buchanan
Principal

Following updated guidance for Schools and Colleges we are advising that Face Masks or Visors should be worn in communal spaces from 7 September.

Where should they be worn?

Face masks or visors should be worn in areas where 1-metre distance from others can not be guaranteed. This includes, but is not limited to; entering the building and proceeding to your place of work/study, moving round the building, on corridors, in the Atrium, and in bathrooms.

Are they needed in The Refectory, Coffee Lounge, Construction Food Area, and at Food Counters?

In line with Government guidance for keeping staff and customers safe in restaurants, face masks or visors should be worn whilst queuing for food in all food outlets on campus. Where there is seating (Refectory and Coffee Lounge) face masks or visors can be removed once you are seated in order to eat your food.

For information:

The Courtyard area (outside) can be used for any food not purchased from the College catering facilities.

Additional seating areas are being considered in some classrooms.

As Landing Areas and the Atrium are communal spaces, where face masks or visors are required at all times, food cannot be consumed in these areas.

‘I understand – and heard from you and your families personally last Thursday – how difficult these recent weeks and days have been for you. The uncertainty you have faced over receiving Ofqual estimated A Level grades has been immense and has been fuelled by the media headlines and the distress felt by your counterparts across the entire country.

“Yesterday, however, the Government announced a decision which may have a significant impact on your future plans and which may give you some confidence that the grade you receive will better reflect the effort and commitment you have shown over the two years of your studies.

“We are now working tirelessly behind the scenes with the awarding bodies to release your centre-assessed A Level grades – these are the grades your Tutors believe you would have achieved should you have taken your final exams as planned – which will be accepted by universities and employers alike going forward.

“Your Tutors know you. They know the passion you have for your studies. They recognise the determination and focus you have shown and the progress you have made. Their assessment matters and will help to shape your future after Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.

“We understand fully that important future decisions rest upon the speedy release of these grades and we immediately started the official process to access, confirm and release your new, official results the moment the Government announcement was made. This process is being led by senior College managers and your Tutors and we will keep you informed every step of the way.

“As soon as your results are ready to be released we will issue them via your official College email account and will also post the notification of your grades to the address we hold for you on our Student Records System.

“As always, your Tutors and Support Staff are here for you: to answer any queries you may have and also to give you the support and guidance you need at this important time. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with them.

“I want to ensure that you can enjoy these next few days and weeks celebrating all you have achieved during your time at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre, not worrying about how the last few months may impact on your future.

“I am proud to be part of the region’s amazing education system, building futures and changing lives at Burnley College, and will do whatever it takes to ensure that everyone has the very best chance to access the best education and careers now and in future.”

Karen Buchanan

Principal, Burnley College Sixth Form Centre

‘Year 11 Pupils, I understand how difficult these recent weeks and days have been. The uncertainty you have faced over receiving estimated GCSE grades has been immense and has been fuelled by the media headlines and the distress felt by so many A Level students nationally, too, who received their estimated results last week.

“Yesterday, however, the Government announced a decision which may give you some confidence that the grade you receive will better reflect the effort and commitment you have shown over the two years of your GCSE studies. I’m really pleased that, on enrolment day this week, we’ll be able to accept your teacher-assessed grades if they are higher than the grade allocated to you by the Department for Education nationally.

“Your teachers know you. They know the passion you have for your studies. They recognise the determination and focus you have shown and the progress you have made. Their assessment matters and will help to shape your future with Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.

“We understand that you are so much more than simply the grade you will receive on Thursday so please make sure you bring along all evidence of grades you have received from school on enrolment day and show us your enthusiasm, your passion for your subjects and your determination to join the Burnley College family. Talk to us about how there is a place for you here – at England’s Number 1 College* – and how we can support you every step of the way to achieve your goals and dreams.

“Where necessary, we will support you to achieve your vital Maths and English qualifications alongside your chosen subjects as these are important in helping you to reach your goals and make your dreams come true.

“If you haven’t already applied to study at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre or attended an interview – for whatever reason – we pledge to work with you to make sure that the disruption and uncertainty cause by Covid-19 doesn’t impact on your ambition. We’ll study your achievements at school to place you in the best possible programme for you as an individual (so, please, if you come into College to enrol, make sure your bring evidence of your school’s grades with you).

“I want to ensure that you can enjoy these next few days and weeks celebrating all you have achieved during your time at Secondary School, not worrying about how the last few months may impact on your future.

Karen Buchanan

Principal, Burnley College Sixth Form Centre and Chief Executive of Themis at Burnley College

*In the latest official Government achievement tables for 16-18 year olds.

Dear Learner

Here at BCUC (Burnley College University Courses), we are committed to protecting the health and well-being of our entire community while delivering the best possible learning experience for every individual university education student, whatever stage they are at in their academic journey.

With this in mind, I am contacting you today regarding our current plans for the delivery of university-level studies in the new academic year, 2020-21.

After much consideration, and using the very latest Public Health advice and guidance, it is our plan to be able to offer face-to-face teaching on the BCUC Campus from September.

However, as you are aware, the threat posed by Covid-19 appears likely to remain for some time and, as such, we are making adaptations where necessary to ensure the safety of both our students and lecturers.

While we are fortunate that our Campus is spacious and our university-level teaching is focused on Lecturers and undergraduates working together in small groups, we have re-evaluated all teaching rooms and communal spaces and reduced their maximum capacities to allow for adequate social distancing.

Where we will be unable to maintain effective social distancing to protect all members of the BCUC family and adhere to Public Health guidance, we will make use of our established and effective online learning platforms – which already form an integral part of our university-level course delivery – to ensure continuity of teaching and learning.

The impacts of Covid-19 are far-reaching and varied but we are confident that, by working together as the supportive, resilient BCUC family, we can come through these difficult times stronger.

While the current worldwide situation has taught us to expect the unexpected, we look forward to welcoming all BCUC students safely to our amazing Campus soon and assure you that your health and wellbeing are of paramount importance to us, alongside the delivery of exceptional university-level education.

As you would expect, we will continue to monitor the situation relating to Covid-19 closely and will inform you immediately should there be any alteration to our plans. Should you require further advice or guidance on the adaptations we are making to ensure continuity of studies, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected] or call 01282 733400.

Yours faithfully

Emma Hurst
Dean of University Education

I’m in touch today, as Dean of BCUC (Burnley College University Courses) with important information regarding your graduation.

As you are aware, the threat from Covid-19 remains significant and it could be some considerable time before life returns to a new ‘normal’ for us all. Government restrictions on our ability to meet in large groups appear likely to remain in place for quite a while yet, sadly.

This means that for all of our students who will successfully complete their undergraduate/post graduate qualification this summer, we have had to take the very sad decision to postpone your graduation to a later date. This has not been a decision that we have taken lightly but it has been led by our desire to:

· Ensure the safety and wellbeing of you and those you would celebrate with
· Ensure you have the opportunity to enjoy the full, ‘real life’ graduation ceremony and experience you deserve after your hard work throughout your degree.

We understand that this is disappointing news for you. You have worked tirelessly and shown huge commitment throughout your studies. Graduation is a time for celebration; for your amazing achievement to be acknowledged not just by your family and friends, but by the whole UCB family and the wider community of Burnley.

That is why we pledge that, once restrictions are lifted, we will stage a full graduation celebration for the BCUC ‘Class of 2020’, family and friends. Your achievements will be recognised and you will receive the acclaim you deserve for completing your degree-level studies and becoming something different.

On what would have been Graduation Day 2020 itself (17 September) you will be at the very forefront of our thoughts. I will join with your Lecturers and Support Staff to toast your success and hope that you will, too. Please do share your photographs with us online so we can reunite (virtually) as the BCUC family.

We will be in contact with you to make arrangements for your graduation as soon as is practicable, following Government guidance. However, successful students will receive qualification certificates shortly and this postponement to the graduation ceremony will have no impact on your ability to use your new qualification when updating your CV or applying for careers.

Thank you for your understanding and patience. We are working hard to ensure that your graduation celebration truly reflects your amazing achievement and will be a day you, your family and friends will remember always.

Emma Hurst
Dean of University Education

Urgent care and treatment is still available to help Lancashire residents. Don’t risk your long-term health by delaying getting the help you need – that’s the message from health bosses.

Patients who don’t have coronavirus can safely access care – including scheduled appointments, vaccinations and maternity services.

The plea comes alongside new findings that four in ten people are too concerned about being a burden on the NHS to seek help from their GP.

Seeking medical help is one of the four reasons that people can safely leave home, in line with government guidance.

The NHS is still there for patients without Covid-19 who need urgent and emergency services for stroke, heart attack, and other killer conditions.

While NHS staff have worked hard to put in place measures allowing people to access care safely – such as splitting services into Covid and non-Covid. GPs, pharmacies, NHS 111 and accident and emergency departments in the area are still operating for those who need them.

Don’t leave your illness or condition until it is too late.

Remember that:

Your GP remains your first point of contact if you have any symptoms that you are concerned about.
Contact your GP practice either online, by an app or by phone to be assessed. You will receive advice through video consultation or over the phone and if you need a face to face appointment you will be advised what to do.
If you need urgent medical help, use the NHS 111 online service. If you cannot get help online, call 111. If it is a serious or life-threatening emergency, call 999

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/staying-at-home-to-avoid-getting-coronavirus/how-to-get-medical-help-from-home/

The Government has announced the procedure that schools and Colleges must comply with to assess grades for those students whose GCSE and A Level exams due to take place this summer have been cancelled, due to Covid-19.

We have been in touch directly by email to Burnley College students who are affected by this development, explaining how we will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the grade you deserve and which reflects your hard work, your commitment and your motivation.

We have detailed the process we must follow, in accordance with Government guidelines, and outlined the potential options students will have on receipt of their assessed grades in August this year.

This video released by Ofqual, provides information on the process to assess your grades which is happening right now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXuDOrtJY1Q

If students, parents or carers have further queries, please do not hesitate to contact our Student Services team on [email protected] . Please note, due to strict guidelines imposed by Ofqual we are not able to discuss any individual grades or disclose any information relating to the assessment of an individual student’s grading.

Charter House Resource Centre are doing an amazing job at helping the Burnley Community!

They are offering:

Free packed lunches for all Burnley children
Free cooked meals for all people 65 or over
Free cooked meals for vulnerable people

-These meals can also be purchased by anyone else at cost price

If you want to order anything or know anyone that may benefit from this please contact Charter House on 01282 429094 or message their Facebook page before 10.30am for Lunch time deliveries.

Following the Government announcement yesterday that restrictions are to remain in place to help save lives and protect the NHS in the battle against Covid-19, remote teaching and learning will remain in place at Burnley College, Themis at Burnley College and BCUC (Burnley College University Courses). The position will be reviewed again following further relevant updates from the Government and Public Health England

Tutors and Trainers are working remotely, with full access to the information and resources necessary to continue to deliver classes; offer individual support to all students/apprentices and ensure that all learners are making progress towards their goals. Support Staff are also available to provide personalised advice and guidance to all learners.

Throughout this period, Burnley College’s online mental health and wellbeing portal The Big White Wall remained available for all learners to access (using their College email account details) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It provides a peer-to-peer, supportive community, monitored by professionals, as well as tutorials and workshops on developing positive mental health and strategies to deal with issues including bereavement, depression, loneliness and anxiety.

Our Student Services team continue to provide a full range of virtual and interactive activities for all learners, delivered via Google Classrooms and our official social media platforms – Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Senior managers continue to monitor the latest Government guidelines relating to the education and training sector and will update all learners directly

Our Student Services team are working hard to ensure that every member of the Burnley College family can access the best advice, guidance and support to maintain good mental and physical health at home.

Here are their top tips and lots of links to great resources which will help you cope through these difficult times:

CORP-COVID19-Health and Wellbeing Online Booklet-v6

The Government has made a further announcement on how this year’s GCSE, AS and A Level grades will be calculated as the exams themselves have been cancelled due to Covid-19.

Here’s the official statement from Sally Collier, head of Ofqual, with more information on how students across the UK will be assessed:

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/877830/Letter_to_students_-_Summer_2020_grading.pdf

Covid-19 will not last forever.

Life will return to normal. Your education or training will continue. You will enjoy the future you have worked so hard for. In the meantime know that we are here for you every step of the way.

Our Student Services Team will ensure that whilst you study remotely you can continue to receive outstanding advice and support as well as an exciting student experience.

Our services will continue to operate from 8.40 – 5.00 pm everyday.

General

For any general enquiries you may have please contact [email protected] or call 01282 733551 or direct message us on Instagram @burnleycollegestudentservices.

We will ensure you get the answers you need.

Careers

The Student Services Team will continue to deliver key tutorials and advice on UCAS, Student Finance, Personal Statements and Employability Skills through Google Classroom to help support you in your next steps. Tutorials will be delivered through a blend of live and recorded sessions during the coming weeks. You will also be able to continue to access one to one careers advice and support.

Contact details for the team can be found below:

Careers Advice & Employability Skills Support:

Kate Gedling
[email protected]
01282 733852

UCAS (including Personal statements) and Student Finance:

Katie Sims
[email protected]
01282 733875

Megan Sharpley
[email protected]
01282 733859

Melanie Ashton
[email protected]
01282 733858

Health Wellbeing and Support:

The Student Services Team will continue to provide health and wellbeing advice, tips and tutorials through official social media channels so make sure you follow us via instagram @burnleycollegestudentservices.

Contact details for the team can be found below:

Guaranteed Bursary Students:

Elleanor Holland
[email protected]
01282 733850

Wellbeing Support:

Laura Norris
[email protected]

Finance Support:

Elleanor Holland
[email protected]
01282 733850

Counselling Support:

Please contact your tutor or Laura Norris/Elleanor Holland
on the contact details above

Don’t forget you can access the Big White Wall for health and emotional support at www.bigwhitewall.com. Instructions can be found on Student OnePlace.

Student Experience

The Student Services Team will continue to provide opportunities for you to engage in new and exciting Extra-Curricular activities so you can continue to have fun, meet new people and enhance your skills for work and life throughout these unusual times.

More information on the activities will be sent to your College email in the coming weeks. These will include; Gaming, Book Clubs, Debating Clubs, Digital Karaoke and Inspiring Talks. There will also be opportunities to take part in competitions and win some fantastic prizes!

Burnley College is your College. We need your views and ideas to influence the activities and experiences the Student Services Team will be offering over the next few weeks whilst we are all working from outside the College Campus. We will be keeping in touch to gain your feedback and ideas. Your Student Innovators, Student Representatives and Student Council Members will continue to represent your views.

Contact details for the team can be found below:

Learner Voice – including Student Reps and Student Council:

Fraser Bonar
[email protected]
01282 733851

Health and Wellbeing Innovators:

Laura Norris
[email protected]
01282 733855

Sustainability Innovators:

Katie Sims
[email protected]
01282 733875

Student Experience Innovators:

Fraser Bonar
[email protected]
01282 733851

Duke of Edinburgh Advice & Support

Katie Sims
[email protected]
01282 733875

Extra-curricular:

Katie Sims
[email protected]
01282 733875

Fraser Bonar
[email protected]
01282 733851

Melanie Ashton
[email protected]
01282 733858

Active Learning Zone

The College ALZ team has created a new OnePlace page with links to contact information and electronic resources.

https://burnley.sharepoint.com/sites/StudentPortal/SitePages/Active-Learning-Zone-(ALZ).aspx

The team will still be offering the same services but via email [email protected]. Students can contact staff about accessing books, journals and other platforms online, IT queries, referencing support and accessing remote desktop. They will also be on hand to proofread students work on Google drive/docs.

Covid-19 will not shape your future. You will. We are here to make sure that happens. We are here to support you every step of the way.

Dear students

These are difficult, challenging and emotional times for everyone and as our daily routines are changing I wanted to update you personally about some of the things we are doing to respond in this time of uncertainty.

As part of the Burnley College family we are in this together.

As always, our priority right now is you, our students and our applicants and what we can do to support you, not only through this difficult time, but on to the planned next stage of your lives, as seamlessly as possible.

That is why we are working very closely with exam boards to understand exactly what they will need from us in order to provide you, our current students, with the grade that most accurately represents your achievements, your work ethic and the effort you have put in to your studies throughout your time at Burnley College. We also want to reassure our applicants that there is a place for you at Burnley College and we will work with your schools to ensure we fully understand the grades which most accurately reflect your hard work and effort over your school years.

We will do everything in our power, adhering to the latest national guidelines, to ensure that no student is disadvantaged by any decision made. We know that you, our A Level and Advanced Vocational students, have worked hard throughout your course and continually show your innovation, your determination and your motivation, placing you in an ideal position to progress on your chosen pathways – whether that is to university, a degree apprenticeship or successful career.

Our individualised support means that our tutors have an in-depth knowledge of you, our students, as an individual and are in an ideal position to give a fair and comprehensive assessment of your progress and achievement throughout your course. We will support every student as an individual and work with you closely from this point forward.

We also recognise that every applicant to Burnley College – whether you are a potential A Level or Vocational programme student or a Themis Apprentice – is much more than the sum of your estimated exam results. To have applied and been accepted to study or train at Burnley College you have shown that you are a uniquely talented and motivated individual: an individual who aims to be the very best, who is an engaged and focussed learner and who will give 100% in everything you do. We will work closely with each and every applicant to ensure your dreams come true and support you as you make important decisions regarding your future.

Working together with students, applicants, parents and employers we can overcome every challenge placed before us by Covid-19 and create a generation of determined and highly-motivated learners with the resilience and energy to help shape the future.

Thank you for your understanding and patience at this time. As I have said before, it’s the kindness and support that we give to each other that will ensure we get safely through these unprecedented times together.

Karen Buchanan, Principal

This afternoon, the Government has given further information on its decision to not hold GCSE, A Level and other exams this summer to help delay and contain the spread of Covid-19.

Burnley College is now taking the opportunity study the statement in-depth, with senior managers and Tutors working closely together to ensure that no student is disadvantaged through this decision.

We pledge that we will work closely with each individual student to agree a way forward that allows them to reach their full potential and progress on their chosen route – whether to university or a successful career.

Our staff will work closely with colleagues within the secondary education sector to ensure that every applicant to Burnley College is treated as an individual, judged on their own merits and attainments while studying for their GCSE exams. They are not the sole sum of their exam results.

Useful Documents to Help Students Work Remotely

Follow this link below to gain access to the useful documents:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1HeRuGJkNIcO0AHHFvqmFjGKThJJDwi6M?usp=sharing

Statement from the Principal

For over 150 years Burnley College, our students and the communities we serve have faced challenges big and small and come through them all by supporting each other and working together. Now as ever the Burnley College team is working tirelessly to ensure our students achieve and we deliver an outstanding service for our customers. This is only possible through the dedication of our staff and I would like to express my thanks to each and every member of the Burnley College family. I would also like to thank our students for their loyalty through these exceptional times.

Here at Burnley College we believe the protection of every student, apprentice and staff member as well as their families and the community, is of paramount importance. That is why, in light of the very latest Public Health England advice on Covid-19, and in order to safeguard every student’s learning experience, a decision has been made to implement the College’s remote learning plan to ensure continuity of learning and training from Thursday 19 March, 2020. A move to remote learning with full tutor access will ensure that each student can continue to access outstanding learning and support wherever they are, throughout this unprecedented period.

Tutors/Trainers have fully updated online and, where necessary, printed resources covering every aspect of the curriculum that would have been delivered in College from Monday 23, March, until the Easter break, beginning on 2 April. Staff have also made contingency plans to ensure that they are available for any subject-specific individual support or queries any student may have during this time – either online or via the telephone.

This will be communicated to each individual student over the next two days by their teaching teams, either via email, Google Classroom or telephone, and will include details of study timetables, tutor access, working materials and assessment methods. Any queries throughout this time should be directed to our Assistant Principal, Angela Donovan on [email protected].

During this period of remote learning, from 23 March to 2 April 2020, the College will remain open for limited, agreed access, by small, managed, groups of students should that be needed to complete practical assessment or formal examinations.

In order to ensure that students are still able to access as many services as possible whilst remote learning is taking place, the Burnley College Student Services team will continue to advise and support students while they study from home. They are providing a full range of career, health and wellbeing and experience activities to support all students during this time. Further details on how to access these exciting services during this time will be sent to each student on Monday 23 March.

We understand that this is a period of national uncertainty, however, the Burnley College family is always here to support and encourage students every step of the way, helping to protect their health and wellbeing and ensuring they can still focus on their goals. Our Student Services staff are still available to answer any general queries they may have on 01282 733333 or [email protected] – alongside Tutors/Trainers, plus The Big White Wall (our online mental health portal – www.bigwhitewall) is still available 24-7, accessed using a college email account.

We are anticipating that face to face learning will take place again from Monday 20 April 2020, however Government guidelines relating to Covid-19 are constantly evolving and the College is monitoring the situation closely. We will be in touch with each student via email with further updates over the coming weeks, as well as using our website and official social media platforms for general updates.

Thank you for your understanding and patience at this time. It’s the kindness and support that we give to each other that will help us get through these unprecedented times.

Karen Buchanan, Principal

Symptoms Update

To support the delay of the spread of the virus, the Department for Health and Social Care has asked anyone who shows certain symptoms to stay at home for 7 days, regardless of whether they have travelled to affected areas. This means people should stay at home and avoid all but essential contact with others for 7 days from the point of displaying mild symptoms, to slow the spread of infection.

The symptoms are:

A high temperature (37.8 degrees and above)
A new, continuous cough

If you are a student and this is applicable to you or you have been advised to self-isolate you should notify Student Services on 01282 733551.

Education Settings Advice

Current advice remains in place: no education or children’s social care setting should close in response to a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case unless advised to do so by Public Health England.

The Chief Medical Officer has advised that the impact of closing schools on both children’s education and on the workforce will be substantial, but the benefit to public health may not be. Decisions on future advice to schools will be taken based on the latest and best scientific evidence, which at this stage suggests children are a lower risk group.

The College is remaining vigilant and monitoring guidance from Public Health England daily: we will update you directly should the national position over COVID-19 change and give appropriate advice.

Please be assured, Burnley College makes the protection, health and wellbeing of all students, apprentices and staff a priority while ensuring continuity of education and training.

The Department for Education (DfE) has launched a new helpline to answer questions about COVID-19 related to education.

Staff, parents and students can contact the helpline by telephone and email:

Phone: 0800 046 8687

Email: [email protected]

The helpline is open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

The government will continue to monitor the spread of COVID-19 and take further action as needed. You can find the latest information and advice on COVID-19 and the latest guidance for educational settings on the GOV.UK website.

Useful websites:

https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/public-health-england