Update from Principal, Mark Jones (25 March)

We are delighted to report that, from Monday 12 April, all students will be invited to return to College for face-to-face learning in very much the same way that we were able to operate in the first term (from September to early December).

The focus during these weeks will be on catching up on any outstanding work, including skills development and in preparing our students for their end of year assessments in whatever form has been agreed by the examination bodies.

We will also take the opportunity to deal with any student-related and IT issues as well as discuss options for progression - in line with our Gower College Swansea Guarantee.

Timetables
Students will follow exactly the same timetable as they had in September. If you are unsure of your timetable, you can check your e-LIP or contact your tutor.

Transport
Students travelling to the Gorseinon Campus will be able to use the College buses as normal, although face coverings must be worn at all times. If you need to check your bus route, please email studentfunding@gcs.ac.uk.

Public transport via First Cymru is already in place for students travelling to Tycoch, Llwyn y Bryn or our Jubilee Court campuses. Please make sure you plan your journey in advance.

Class bubbles
For all full time students, class bubbles will return. This means you will be able to have breaks with those students in the same bubble as you. Please note: you will need to keep a two metre distance from anyone outside your class bubble. This includes your lecturers.

Class bubbles will not apply to part time students, apprentices or higher education students. These students will need to continue with a two metre social distance from everyone at all times.

Face coverings
All students will be required to wear a face covering at all times (apart from anyone with an exemption) – this includes on transport to and from College, in classrooms, in all common rooms areas, outside on campus grounds and when using the toilet facilities.

Hand washing and sanitation
All students will need to sanitise their hands on arrival to College and throughout the day using the sanitation stations. These are located around the campuses and in each classroom.

Ventilation
We will ensure that we have plenty of fresh air circulating in all classrooms, by keeping doors and windows open wherever possible.

Lateral flow testing
All students will be offered a four-week pack of lateral flow home testing kits on their return to College. The lateral flow home testing kits are not compulsory and it is not a requirement for students to take and use the home tests to return to College.

Catering
Our catering outlets will be open for a grab and go service offering refreshments such as sandwiches, crisps, confectionary and drinks.

We fully appreciate this year has once again been an uncertain and challenging one, but we have been working hard to ensure the whole College community feels safe and secure when we return after Easter.

Please help us to help you and follow the guidance we have in place. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to your tutor.

We look forward to welcoming you back after the Easter break.

Mark Jones
Principal