College update: Extension of online learning

January 7, 2021

Following the announcement by the Scottish Government of increased measures to prevent the spread of Coronavirus, the decision has been taken to extend the period of online learning at NESCol until 8 February. 

The college has been working remotely since the session restarted yesterday (6 January). 

Face to face teaching will be paused during this time. Students timetabled to attend College campuses in the weeks ahead should remain at home and follow the guidance of course leaders.  

Remote learning will be delivered via the College’s well-established Virtual Learning Environment. Significant investment has been made to ensure equal digital access for all students, with additional devices and 4G internet connections made available. 

Principal Neil Cowie said: “The fundamental consideration has been ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of students, staff and the communities we serve in light of the increased transmissibility of the new variant of the virus. Once again the important message to stress is that we must all stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives. 

“The move from blended learning to fully online delivery for this period will of course bring challenges for staff and students, particularly in practical subject areas, but we have demonstrated previously our ability to be agile and resilient. Those qualities will once again come to the fore.” 

Although campuses will be closed for general access, managed provision will be made for students who require study facilities or support services.  Students should contact their academic tutor or studentadvice@nescol.ac.uk to discuss any issues arising from the move to remote delivery. The online support tools and community at www.togetherall.com are also available to all NESCol students.  

NESCol has been operating a blended model for full-time students since the beginning of the 2020/21 College session. Courses have been delivered using a mix of practical on-site classes and live online sessions as well as structured remote learning activities which give students flexibility in their schedule. Those limited on-site classes have now been suspended until 8 February with the move to fully remote delivery.