College update: Revised start date set as planning for 2020/21 progresses

June 3, 2020

Full-time courses at North East Scotland College will begin on 7 September 2020 as part of a phased start to the 2020/21 academic year.

The revised date, two weeks later than originally scheduled, is part of a number of measures being introduced in response to the Scottish Government route map for moving out of lockdown.

The health, safety and wellbeing of students, staff and visitors remains the main priority and plans are based on evolving national guidance.

The College is committed to providing the highest quality experience for students and to ensuring an engaging, nurturing environment. The energy of the NESCol community has come to the fore in the challenging circumstances of recent months and building on that will be a focus in the new session.

Measures for the first term include:

  • A phased start to the new session with the first full-time courses beginning on 7 September. College induction activities will begin online in August and each student will be contacted with details of their own course arrangements.
  • A blended approach to learning and teaching, with courses delivered online for the majority of students. Digital learning will be supported through the distribution of devices and 4G internet provision where required.
  • Access to College campuses will be restricted to students in priority groups, including those in practical subject areas, on a limited basis.
  • Where access to buildings is permitted, social distancing guidance will be followed. This will reduce capacity in all areas and require the introduction of one-way routes. Guidance on Personal Protective Equipment, including facemasks, will also be adhered to.

These measures, which will not affect student funding, will be reviewed in line with national guidance and may be extended beyond the first term.

A number of other considerations are being taken into account as part of comprehensive plans being developed for the new academic year. These range from transport provision and facilities management to liaison with awarding bodies and the development of additional online learning resources.

Further details will be shared with students, staff and stakeholders as they are finalised. Frequently Asked Questions in relation to the new academic year are available here.

The college has been delivering courses online since March, when campuses closed as part of the regional response to the Coronavirus outbreak.

Student support services, including live chat, have been maintained through the College’s specialist teams and online provision has been expanded with the introduction of free access to www.bigwhitewall.com .

Applications for the 2020/21 academic year remain open across NESCol’s full course offering. Further information on course options and online applications can be found at www.nescol.ac.uk .

Guidance for students and applicants is available by email at studentadvice@nescol.ac.uk .