28 April 2020
Dear Parent/ Guardian,
We have been pleased to see the commitment and enthusiasm of so many of our students, in returning to their online studies since the break. Student feedback shows that a large majority of them have enjoyed online learning and only a small number have had difficulties accessing materials. Please don’t hesitate to let us know if you have technical issues causing challenges.
Today, we have also contacted you to ask for your feedback in a survey around online learning. This is anonymous and is designed to inform us as to whether there is anything else that we need to do to make this as successful as possible. JT are offering temporary broadband for families who need this. Please contact Student Life if you need this (Nicola.brown@highlands.ac.uk).
As you know, the ‘stay at home order’ has been extended until 11th May. We are gaining small amounts of information from our awarding bodies and tutors are working hard to collect evidence for students’ grades. We know that this might mean that in some units, things appear uncertain, and students might even question whether further work is necessary. In all cases, they should follow the advice of tutors who will know exactly what the exam board is advising. We encourage you to email the Head of Department directly yourselves if you have queries about this.
Usually, we would offer some students opportunities to visit the course they hope to move to in September, and sometimes face to face interviews. This cannot happen in the same way this year – but we know that we still need to ensure students are fully prepared for September. One of the things we are exploring is an adaptation of the last few weeks of this academic year to include study skills and preparation for September, and also whether can offer additional qualifications through short online courses (for example, in Health and Safety). A group of staff are working on a framework of delivery for this and we will be in touch with students soon.
The College would also have been involved in the 75 year anniversary of Liberation Day. We are encouraging all students to participate in our ‘Liberated from Lockdown’ campaign – this includes changing any social media profile pictures to a flag. We will also be celebrating in other creative and unusual ways – please follow our social media for more!
We want, and need, your feedback so please email personal tutors, or make contact via our college website “contact” section. If a student is experiencing difficulties and struggling in any way, we want to know so we can put extra support in place.
Finally, I wanted to thank you for your ongoing support, patience and understanding in these challenging times. Take care and Stay Safe.
Yours sincerely
Dreena Collins
Assistant Principal