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Heart of Worcestershire College (HoW College) are prepared for a safe return for staff and students this September.

The Coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdown has caused a lot of uncertainty for those in education, especially as the new academic year is about to start. However, over this unprecedented time HoW College has ensured that the safety of staff and students is a primary aim.

A range of preventive measures and controls have been put in place to ensure the College is COVID secure. Amongst these measures the College have purchased 150 litres of hand sanitiser gel and over 100 floor standing and wall mounted hand sanitiser stations that have been placed in key areas to encourage hand hygiene.

Talking about the upcoming return for students, HoW College’s Deputy Chief Executive and Vice Principal, Corporate and Resources, Nicki Williams, said:

“The safety and wellbeing of students and staff is our primary aim. We will continue to be informed by guidance from government and consult with students and staff ensuring that our campuses are safe and welcoming to all.”

The College have provided reusable face coverings and t-shirts to staff and PPE such as medical grade face masks, visors, gloves and aprons are available for first aiders and staff working with more vulnerable students.

Classrooms and workshops have also been adapted to support distancing where possible; this includes protective screens where students face each other whilst working and undertaking practical sessions. Perspex and protective glass screening have also been installed in high footfall areas including cafeterias, learning centres and receptions.  

Further commenting on the changes that have been made since March, Nicki stated:

“Since the beginning of lockdown, we have successfully adapted and transferred our teaching, learning and assessments to online methods that have enabled student success; upholding the integrity of our provision.

We are in a strong position to further develop these methods of learning as we will have access to many resources already present in our delivery approaches. We excel in the ability to provide a supportive and more tailored approach to education, largely due to our small group sizes, allowing us to create a secure environment.”

The College has also introduced one-way systems in buildings and additional floor stickers have been added to high footfall areas to remind staff, students and visitors to maintain social distancing.

For those considering their post-16 options this year, HoW College have uploaded a number of virtual talks and 360 ° tours to their website for prospective students and parents, to ensure everyone can learn more about the courses on offer as well as take a look around campuses from the comfort of their own home.