Academic Bridge Notice

In relation to the government directive to reopen for face to face classes by Oct 12th - PCN advocated robustly for education provision to remain online and/or for blended learning options to be implemented, this position places the health and safety of students and staff at the forefront. Having received communication for the Dept of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the decision has been made to remain online until comprehensive safety guidelines can be drawn up and ratified in conjunction with the Dept of Health and NEPHET. As always, the safety of students and staff remains PCN's primary concern, as has been the case throughout this pandemic and prior. PCN always supports the wishes and preferences of students and staff, who have clearly indicated the wish to continue with the current framework (online) as this option affords the greatest level of protection to all parties involved. The previous announcement to reopen for face to face classes by Oct 12th, was as the result of a government directive, which has now been rolled back on. It is the view of PCN that this decision is a wise one, as the directive in question put student and staff safety in jeopardy, which is a position that cannot be supported by PCN. Having reviewed options it is clear that, notwithstanding the implementation of ratified safety measures, the virus has proven itself to be transmissible even within secure environments. Therefore remaining online presents the safest option at this time. PCN continues to endeavour to assure that education provision remains at the highest of standards. We will of course continue to cooperate and work closely with authorities as we have done since inception. We shall also continue to seek feedback from students and staff to help us adapt together and guarantee the best learning experience and working environment possible.