College ready for returning students

Loughborough College has put in a range of measures to protect staff, students and the community after months of planning.

The college says their teams, working with independent safety experts, have focused on implementing best practice safety measures to keep their college community safe by reducing the risk of Covid-19 transmission.

The college’s key measures include:

• A cap on the number of people allowed on campus
• A blend of online and face-to-face teaching and learning
• Class ‘bubbles’ on campus
• Social distancing rules in all buildings throughout college
• Face covering policy when moving around campus and in enclosed spaces
• Use of protective screens, provision of hand sanitiser and enhanced cleaning regime in all buildings
• Clear signage, including marking of high intensity touch points
• Temperature checks on entry to campus
• Briefings so staff and students are fully aware of their responsibilities in following social distancing and government guidance on and off campus

A comprehensive plan to respond and address any issues to ensure the safety of students, staff and the community.

Jo Maher, Principal and CEO of Loughborough College, said: "We cannot wait to welcome students back for the start of the new term, but this must be done safely.

“Keeping our staff, students, their families and the community safe is our top priority which is why we have consistently gone above and beyond government requirements.

“For example, we introduced our face covering policy on campus in early August, among other measures, which helped us provide essential support to key workers and vulnerable students who have used our facilities during the summer.

“As a member of the community, we are doing everything we can to minimise the risk and impact. Our staff and students have received comprehensive safety briefings and we’ll continue updating them on the safety guidance.

“As a college, we will remain vigilant. Our plan is robust and has helped us prepare our campus. But it is also flexible so we can respond swiftly to any issues and navigate as safely as we can through these uncertain times.”

Loughborough College is also working with local partners to ensure the guidance is promoted to staff and students and that safety measures are observed.

Councillor Jenny Bokor, lead member for Loughborough at Charnwood Borough Council, said: “It’s great to see Loughborough College welcoming back its students and the measures they have put in place to ensure everyone’s safety.

“Each and every one of us can help tackle the virus by adhering to the guidance – keep your distance, regularly wash your hands and wear a face covering in enclosed spaces if you can.”