ColegauCymru has today noted Welsh Government’s publication of the Guidance for Safe Operation from September 2020 for the post-16 sector.
Whilst we are encouraged that guidance has finally been published to make the learning environment Covid19 secure, we remain concerned about the many unanswered questions and urge for clarity at the earliest opportunity. The guidance relating to matters of transport, vulnerable learners and staff remains unclear. Greater clarity is also sought on provision for Independent Learning Skill (ILS) learners. Ensuring digital inclusion and avoiding digital poverty must be a priority for the Minister as we prepare for a possible second wave, and to future-proof the FE sector. The additional funding agreed to date is not sufficient to support this.
ColegauCymru Chief Executive Iestyn Davies said,
“Whilst we are pleased that progress has been made with the publication of today’s guidance, the new term is just 5 weeks away with many questions still unanswered. These practical issues must be addressed urgently”.
ColegauCymru Chair and Chief Executive of Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, Dafydd Evans added,
"We have been grateful to work closely with Welsh Government in developing the Guidance for Safe Operation from September 2020, and look forward to continued dialogue to resolve funding concerns and turning the Minister’s commitment to pay parity into a reality."
Further information
Welsh Government Press Release:
New coronavirus guidance to support providers of higher education and further education in Wales
Guidance documents:
Strategic framework for learning delivery in Post-16 learning from September 2020
Guidance for safe operation in Post-16 learning from September 2020
Blended learning guidance for Post-16 providers
