Member Article

Global Learning at Abbey College Manchester

Abbey College Manchester has adopted a global approach to learning during the college shutdown, ensuring that while it may not be ‘lessons as normal’, it’s certainly ‘learning as normal’ as it extends its educational reach to territories as far afield as the Far East.

Using advanced online software, all students at the leading independent college are following their usual timetables from over 30 countries around the globe. Through the use of technology, the temporary closure of the college has not stopped staff members from following their normal teaching timetables with the students. They are benefitting from the ability to upload materials online, message their classes and participate in group video calls, ensuring that students are on task and focussed on their studies.

With a large number of international students, many of whom were able to find flights at the last minute, teachers know where in the world their students are, which time zone they are in and whether or not they should be online at the time of the lesson.

Some international students were unable to get home as their countries had already closed their boarders, and are still in their boarding or accommodation being expertly looked after and cared for the boarding team. Those housed in Riverside House, the college’s boarding facility, have been getting creative with exercise, going head to head in a series of challenges and making use of their urban courtyard space.

In addition to academic subjects, all form tutors have created “form teams” and are checking in with their students on a daily basis, and wellbeing support is also being provided for students helping them to process their emotions and be as calm, focussed and happy as possible during this challenging time.

Principal at Abbey College Manchester, Liz Elam, commented: “So far, the engagement and attendance to lessons has been great and the ease with which online conferencing platforms can be used has helped even the least confident users to become experts at distance learning. I am exceptionally proud of how our college community is working together during this time of uncertainty.”

“We may be witnessing a short-term solution to a global pandemic, and we may also be having a little glimpse into how these new technologies can further support learning in the future.”

The college is also mindful of students looking for their onward destination after GCSEs, those who are interested in a place at Abbey College Manchester can still contact the college on: admin@abbeymanchester.co.uk

Abbey College is a leading independent college in the heart of Manchester, with a fast-growing and vibrant community

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Melissa Chawner .