Update: 15 March 2020
Dear Strathclyde colleagues,
I am acutely aware of the concern of staff and students regarding the changing nature of the COVID-19 situation. I would like to thank you for your support in what are rapidly changing circumstances, this is greatly appreciated.
I would like to assure you that in planning for the growing impact of the outbreak, the safety, health and wellbeing of the whole University has been, and continues to be, of paramount importance to us.
Our actions will remain aligned to the guidance from the WHO, the UK and Scottish governments, Public Health Scotland and the NHS.
Due to the continued spread of the outbreak, we have decided to suspend all face-to-face teaching.
Preparations for this option have been underway for a number of weeks involving each of the Faculties, Education Enhancement and ISD, and I now feel it is the right time to take this course of action.
From Monday 16 March all teaching will be delivered online via MyPlace and students should not attend scheduled lectures or classes; the students have been told of this decision.
The Campus will remain open for both staff and students including student residences, the library, Strathclyde Sport and student support and welfare services.
Further details and the arrangements being put in place for the remainder of the academic year will be communicated to you in due course.
Student communications
An all student message has been sent this morning and Faculties, Departments and Schools will be contacting their students directly this week to advise on teaching provision and coursework.
Exams
We are also looking at how we deliver the examinations scheduled for the April/May assessment period - including the arrangements for final year projects and dissertations - and guidance on this will be developed soon.
Impact on staff
Academic and professional services staff will be working together over the coming days and weeks to ensure the effective delivery of learning, assessment, student and staff services. Whilst flexible and remote working for staff is available where appropriate, as outlined in the staff FAQs, we are not at this stage advising all staff to work from home.
However, as per Sandra Heidinger’s communication on Friday 13 March, it is important that we prepare for the necessity of remote working over the next few working days and I strongly recommend you look at the guidance on the website.
Events & meetings
In accordance with government advice, all events with over 500 people should be postponed or cancelled until further notice.
We are continually monitoring and assessing information from the WHO, the UK and Scottish governments, and Health Protection Scotland to inform the implementation of our business continuity plans. Further information and advice for students and staff regarding the COVID-19 outbreak is available on the University's website.
I appreciate this is an uncertain time for you, your colleagues, students and your families and I wish to reassure you that your wellbeing and safety remains our primary concern. If you are worried about anything please speak to your line manager or colleagues in Human Resources.
My thanks are extended to the whole University community and I would like to thank you for your efforts and commitment to Strathclyde and in the way we continue to support one another at this challenging time.
Best wishes,
Jim