We established NewBridge College to ensure that classes would be small and lectures are interactive and engaging. With our average class sizes ranging from 15 to 30 students, it is relatively simple for us to adapt to various stages of lockdown by either:

• splitting and repeating classes, to ensure we meet all required social distancing
• seamlessly moving all lectures online
• a combination of the above, depending on lockdown stage

We have developed COVID protocols that are specific to each lockdown level, with a balance of online and face-to-face lectures based on the risk factor. However, every student is able to opt for more online lectures than face-to-face, or an entirely online experience, if you are more comfortable with this arrangement. You will still receive a comprehensive level of support, with online lectures, tutorials, workshops, and more.

To ensure an uninterrupted learning experience at NewBridge College, we have implemented a range of safety measures based on the current WHO guidelines. The following protocols will remain in place regardless of lockdown levels; however, NewBridge College will revise these protocols in line with any updated regulations.

• Temperatures will be taken and recorded on entrance to the campus
• Sanitisation stations will be available across the campus
• 5m social distancing will be adhered to at all times
• Masks are to be worn at all times by students, visitors, staff and lecturers
• Lecture sizes will not exceed 50% of the capacity of each lecture theatre to ensure adequate social distancing
• Lecture rooms will be deep-cleaned after each lecture session by our dedicated on-site sanitisation team
• All sessions and activities will be designed to prioritise social distancing, from lectures to social activities
• Students will be required to eat in allocated outdoor areas situated outside our Café
• Use of common areas will be staggered to encourage social distancing
• Sharing of stationery and other items will be discouraged
• Common items such as cups and teaspoons will be replaced with disposable alternatives
• Routine screening and contact-tracing will be in place
• Students and staff displaying symptoms will be asked to isolate while continuing with virtual sessions, and will not be permitted to enter the campus

Existing protocols such as social distancing, hand hygiene and regular deep-cleaning will be increased according to the levels and in response to the current risk factors. Should more serious protocols become necessary, these will be implemented and communicated at the time.

Please look after your safety and the safety of others by adhering to these protocols whenever you are at NewBridge College. Let’s look after our future together!

The below plan has been developed based on the current COVID regulation guidelines for each lockdown level. As the government advises us on the current risk level, we will implement new procedures to ensure continued safety and learning.

Level 1 & 2

• 3 face-to-face lecture sessions per week
• 1 online lecture session and 1 Accelerate Academy session per week

Level 3

• 2 face-to-face lecture sessions per week
• 2 online lecture sessions and 1 Accelerate Academy session per week

Level 4 &5

• 4 online lecture sessions and 1 Accelerate Academy session per week

Class timetables may change to allow for social distancing as various levels are implemented. Online timetables may also need to change in response to load shedding schedules, however all students will be kept up-to-date via the NewBridge College student portal.