Today was the first day as a ‘virtual’ college. Could I please ask that you encourage your sons/daughters to be patient with their teachers and senior tutors; none of us have worked in this way before and we’re all learning together. Some things will work, others not, but please ask them to persist.

The latest information about examinations and the awarding of grades for A level, GCSE, BTEC and other vocational qualifications can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-cancellation-of-gcses-as-and-a-levels-in-2020/coronavirus-covid-19-cancellation-of-gcses-as-and-a-levels-in-2020. We will be in touch as soon as we have greater clarity on the mechanism the exam boards will use. Students at Ashton Sixth Form College perform well when compared with students from other colleges and school sixth forms; we will work hard to ensure that no students is disadvantaged as a result of the current situation. Please do not contact teachers or senior tutors about predicted grades.

Our advice for all students is to stay engaged in your learning, whether an A1, A2 or Level 2 student.

A1 students should continue to work through the online resources and packs which have been created for them. We encourage students to stay in contact with their teachers and senior tutor via email and try to keep to a routine. It is also important to remember to set aside time in the day for other things and stay in contact with friends and family.

A2 and Level 2 students should try to stay engaged in their learning in spite of the cancellation of A level and GCSE examinations. This is particularly relevant if your son / daughter is planning to progress to university or a higher level apprenticeship. Good study habits take time to form, but are easily lost. Vocational students on BTEC or CACHE courses at both level 2 and 3 should continue to work on your coursework until we have more information as we do not know what the examination boards will use to award grades. This is also the case for EPQ students who should continue with their projects and submit on Canvas as instructed. Again, finding some time to stay in contact with friends and family is important.

We will stay in touch with any updates or information from the Department for Education, Ofqual or the examination boards.

It is also important to act responsibly and follow the official advice. The latest advice on how to keep yourself and others safe can be found at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/. Our NHS is fighting hard to protect all of us; we need to play our part too.

We will continue to use the college’s website and social media feeds to keep you up-to-date as well as regular emails. Thank you for your support at this difficult time.

Take care.

Anton

Principal