Coronavirus - advice for students, parents and guardians

Update 2 March: 

We are aware of a case of coronavirus being identified in Essex and we understand people may feel concerned.

While this case is in no way linked to the college, we are reminding everyone to take precautions to minimise the risk of infection.

The Department for Education has launched a Coronavirus helpline to answer questions about COVID-19 related to education. Staff, parents and young people can contact the helpline as follows:
Phone: 0800 046 8687
Email: DfE.coronavirushelpline@education.gov.uk
Opening hours: 8am to 6pm (Monday to Friday)

Government guidelines remain that the best form of prevention is to:

Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly throughout the day, especially before and after eating and after using the toilet.
If you cough or sneeze you should catch it with a tissue, bin it, then kill it by washing your hands thoroughly with warm soapy water.

The college takes student and staff health and safety extremely seriously and we are closely monitoring official government guidelines regarding coronavirus.

Information and guidance:
www.gov.uk/coronavirus
www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-educational-settings-about-covid-19
 

 

Update 27 February:

We are aware that some students may be planning to, or have travelled to countries and regions where there are reported cases of the Coronavirus. Your safety and the safety of all of our staff and students is really important to us so please ensure that if you are travelling you are mindful of the latest government and WHO guidance on the virus. 
 
If you have concerns about where you have travelled to or have any questions please contact your tutor before you attend college.  

Please have a look at the following links which outline the current impacted areas and WHO guidance if you have any questions.

We do not wish to cause any panic with this message as we are not aware of any cases in the college or local areas, but want to take steps to minimise the risk. 
 
Information and guidance: www.gov.uk/coronavirus    
www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-educational-settings-about-covid-19
 
Maps showing affected regions of China, Republic of Korea and Italy: www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-specified-countries-and-areas
 
As the coronavirus is a respiratory contactable virus, we can use the same protection measures as the flu.
The NHS’ campaign ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’ is an effective way of reducing the risk of spreading germs. It may be stating the obvious, but the main advice is to ensure you:
•        Wash your hands often with warm water and soap
•        Use tissues to trap germs when you cough or sneeze
•        Bin used tissues as quickly as possible
 
Please contact your tutor in the first instance if you have any concerns or call 0345 5212345.

Thank you.