University News Last updated 17 March 2020
Birmingham City University is to move all of its teaching and lectures online with immediate effect as the COVID-19 outbreak continues to worsen.
The University will cease face-to-face lectures, seminars and assessments from today (17 March) and instead provide students with the opportunity to access learning off-site following a reading week.
The institution had already taken steps to replace its 21 March Open Day with a ‘Virtual Open Day,’ giving prospective students the opportunity to hear from academics, explore facilities and learn more about courses without having to leave their homes.
Staff will also begin a transition phase whereby some activities are delivered remotely, although it will be necessary for some staff to remain on campus to provide essential services and support for students who also need to remain on campus.
Professor Philip Plowden, Vice-Chancellor at Birmingham City University, said: “As the health and well-being of all in our University community is of the utmost importance to us, we have taken the decision to suspend all on-campus teaching.
“This is a challenging and fast-moving situation and we need to respond to the latest advice and guidance, which also means we are making arrangements for our staff to work flexibly or virtually where possible.
“At BCU we have a very strong university community. We will continue to work together, and to look after one another – just as we always have.”