Blackburn College Principal and Chief Executive, Dr Fazal Dad has received both of his Covid-19 vaccinations. Here he encourages all members of our local communities to have their vaccine.  

For our communities to function and to go about their daily business in a safe way, it will be critical that all of us are mindful of our own actions and behaviours to protect each other.  

Education plays a pivotal role in society to bring about a greater understanding of risks associated with pandemic viruses and raising awareness of safety measures.

Previous pandemics have taught us three critical things:

1. Being fully aware of the risks posed by the Covid-19 virus and our behaviours having to change to reduce infection rates; 

2. When we think we have symptoms of Covid-19, to immediately isolate and get tested and follow Government guidelines; and 

3. Most critically, to have the Covid-19 vaccine to provide us with the best possible opportunity of protecting ourselves and our communities.

During the last 18 months education has been enormously affected by the lockdowns posed by the Government to support the national strategy to control infection rates.

However, the outstanding efforts by teachers to continue providing education through digital platforms has supported many students to achieve their qualifications and progress into employment or further study.  But the real impact of lost learning is yet to be realised. 

Furthermore, we have to also recognise the impact of lost learning on individuals. Therefore, working in partnership, it is imperative parents/carers support educational institutions to work collectively to maximise the opportunity of the Government’s tuition funding to make up for lost learning.

Finally, it is important to recognise the outstanding work from teachers and parents/carers who have relentlessly continued to support young learners through these most challenging times by providing high quality education.

The College is planning to deliver all courses from September 2021 face-to-face, subject to Government guidelines.  If you have any concerns, please contact The Hub: thehub@blackburn.ac.uk / 01254 292929.