Selby College has safely welcomed back its students to face-to-face learning, following the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown.

Online learning is also still being provided so that students can be eased back into face-to-face learning as safely and seamlessly as possible.

As part of the return, the College has set up a dedicated Covid-19 testing centre to provide free lateral flow tests for both students and staff. So far, the College has received high-levels of take up for testing by its students, with no positive tests reported.

The lateral flow tests are voluntary, but students are encouraged to take three tests spaced between 3-to-5 days apart to help stop the spread of the virus and to keep the College operating as safely as possible. Students are also being provided with home testing kits where possible, so that they can easily take the test prior to coming on-site.

Phil Sayles, Principal and Chief Executive at Selby College, said: “While online learning has proven to be successful in the interim, we are delighted to be able to welcome our students back on campus again. Following this, we are determined to ensure that they are able to complete their course successfully, so that they can move on to their next chapter, whether that be on to higher education, an apprenticeship or to begin their career. We aim to do this whilst providing a safe environment through the use of testing and other measures on campus, ensuring that our students have a rewarding, yet safe, experience after the challenging year that they have had.”

Until Easter, when the government will review the guidance, students are also now required to wear masks at all times when inside, including within classrooms – except those with approved exemptions.

Ruby Oates, BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching and Exercise Science student at Selby College, said: “My tutors have been really helpful during online learning and have always helped myself and my fellow classmates with any issues that we have. However, I am really looking forward to be back in the classroom environment where I can easily ask my tutor questions and see demonstrations face-to-face, as well as interact with my fellow students. I was quite worried about the lateral flow tests before coming back to College, but the process was easy to follow and the staff put me at ease straight away and were very helpful.”

Social distancing measures, as well as other safety precautions such as increased handwashing and sanitising facilities, are continuing to be implemented across the campus to keep everyone safe.