I hope you are all well and beginning to adjust to our new ‘normal’. The announcement by the Prime Minister yesterday was unprecedented but not surprising knowing what we know from countries such as Italy and Spain. This is not a time for selfishness; each and every one of us has a duty to comply with the rules in order to help reduce the pressure on the NHS so that service can do its job. I know you will all play your part. As a reminder the rules are that:

Everyone must stay at home to help stop the spread of coronavirus.

You can only leave your home:

• to shop for basic essentials – only when you really need to
• to do one form of exercise a day – such as a run, walk or cycle, alone or with other people you live with
• for any medical need – for example, to visit a pharmacy or deliver essential supplies to a vulnerable person
• to travel to and from work – but only where this is absolutely necessary

Further advice and the most up-to-date guidance can be found at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

Bursary funding and Free College Meals

Those students who receive bursary funding will continue to receive it via their bank accounts. In addition, those eligible for free college meals will receive an additional amount of money to cover their free college meals entitlement; this will be wrapped in with the bursary payment. I can also confirm that all bursary and free college meal entitlements will continue to be paid over the Easter holiday to help those in most need.

Distance learning is working

Our distance learning is running well. Yesterday, there were 774 direct access requests to the college system which is excellent and provides evidence that your sons and daughters are continuing to study from home which is pleasing. Our IT infrastructure is working well and is being constantly monitored.

Examinations and the awarding of grades

At the time of writing, there are no updates about the mechanism for awarding grades for A level, GCSEs and BTECs at level 2 and 3. We are expecting to hear more by the end of this week and will update you as soon as we are able.

Thank you for your support, co-operation and patience at this difficult time; we really appreciate it.

Finally, stay positive, look after each other, be kind and stay safe.

Take care.

Anton

Principal