COVID-19 Updates

COVID-19 Updates

COVID-19 Update – New PSI Rapid Test Kit Strategy + Updated BCCDC Post-secondary Guidance
January 25, 2022

To: All certified private training institutions and new certification applicants   Please note the following COVID-19 updates for January 25, 2022: Post-secondary Rapid Test Kit Strategy A total of 500,000 rapid tests will be distributed directly to post-secondary institutions from the Provincial Health Services Authority, based on allocation priorities outlined in the COVID-19 Rapid Testing Guidance for Post-secondary Institutions available on the BCCDC website.
  • Rapid tests will be available as an optional, time-limited initiative for post-secondary institutions for the testing of symptomatic employees and students.
  • The tests are a self-management tool intended to support the continuity of on-campus learning, instruction and research.
  • Asymptomatic screening of employees and students is not recommended by public health and tests distributed to postsecondary institutions from the provincial supply are not to be used for asymptomatic screening programs.
  • The Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training will be reaching out directly to eligible institutions to confirm test kit allocations and distribution logistics based on the priorities identified in the BCCDC guidance.
  Updated BCCDC Return to Campus Public Health Guidance Earlier today the BCCDC updated their public health guidance for post-secondary institutions to support in-person learning for the winter academic term.   Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response. Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. COVID-19 Resources:   Private Training Institutions Branch Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills TrainingF: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441 privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

Confidentiality Notice: The contents of this email message and any attachments are intended solely for the addressee(s) and may contain confidential and/or privileged information. If you are not the intended recipient of this message, or if this message has been addressed to you in error, please immediately alert the sender by reply email and then delete this message and any attachments. If you are not the intended recipient, any use, dissemination, copying, or storage of this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited.

COVID-19 Update: Updated BCCDC Mask Information + PSI COVID-19 Safety Plan Exemption
January 13, 2022

To: All certified private training institutions and new certification applicants

 

Please note the following COVID-19 updates for January 13, 2022: 

Updated BCCDC Mask Information

On January 10, 2022 the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) updated their mask information for the public.  Masks are one of many layers of protection used in post-secondary classrooms and workplaces to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

  • All types of masks help reduce the transmission of COVID-19 when they fit comfortably over the mouth and nose with no gaps around the face.
  • In healthcare and other workplace settings, respirators (e.g., N95, KN95, or CAN95) are specially fitted to each person, but in public settings this is not needed. 
  • Respirators and medical masks may provide better protection than other masks when worn correctly and consistently.
  • Individuals are advised to choose the mask that is best for them, depending on ability to wear comfortably, affordability, and individual risk.

 

COVID-19 Safety Plan Exemption for Post-secondary Institutions

In a media briefing on January 7, 2022 (see timestamp 6 mins 30 sec) the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) announced that business owners are to implement COVID-19 safety plans that are appropriate for this phase of the pandemic where much of the population is immunized and business continuity is a priority. 

  • Educational settings (K-12 and post-secondary institutions) and healthcare facilities are exempt from this requirement because detailed COVID-19 protocols have already been developed to address COVID-19 related risks, in close collaboration with staff from the PHO.
  • A new PHO order on workplace safety is currently under development and will provide written confirmation of this exemption.

 

The Ministry is working with the BCCDC and the PHO to update the COVID-19 Return to Campus Guidelines to reflect these updates.

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response.  Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions.

COVID-19 Resources:

 

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

COVID-19 Update – Vancouver Coastal Health Data Shows Low COVID-19 Rates at PSIs December 8, 2021

To: All certified private training institutions and new certification applicants

Please note the following COVID-19 update for December 8, 2021:

Information Bulletin from Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) shows low COVID-19 rates at PSIs in the VCH region:

  • Data collected by VCH shows that post-secondary institutions in the VCH region have seen low rates of COVID-19 transmission with the fall return to campus.
  • Since September 7, 2021, there have been fewer that five transmissions detected in post-secondary learning settings, and 219 cases overall among students and staff (see attached and chart below). 
  • Consistent with international literature and VCH data from other sectors, transmission within learning settings has been low.
  • VCH Medical Health Officers believe the low case rates are thanks to high vaccination rates and robust communicable disease prevention plans at post-secondary institutions.

 

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response.  Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

 

COVID-19 Resources:

 

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

COVID-19 Update – International Students: Adjustments to Canada's Border and Travel Measures

November 26, 2021

Please note the following COVID-19 updates for November 26, 2021:

International Students:  Adjustments to Canada’s Border and Travel Measures

      The Government of Canada announced that they will be adjusting the entry requirements for travellers.

  • Effective November 30, 2021, Canada will expand its list of accepted COVID-19 vaccines for the purposes of entry into Canada, and introduce exemptions from some testing and quarantine requirements.
  • As of January 15, 2022, international students (18 years or older), will only be allowed to enter the country if they are fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved for entry into Canada.
  • Fully vaccinated students will be allowed to attend any provincially or territorially designated learning institution in Canada.

 

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response.  Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

 

COVID-19 Resources:

 

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

 

Confidentiality Notice: The contents of this email message and any attachments are intended solely for the addressee(s) and may contain confidential and/or privileged information. If you are not the intended recipient of this message, or if this message has been addressed to you in error, please immediately alert the sender by reply email and then delete this message and any attachments. If you are not the intended recipient, any use, dissemination, copying, or storage of this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited.

Particular Attention for PSIs in the Northern Health Authority Area COVID-19 Update Oct 15/21 - Hospital and Community Prevention Measures + Gathering and Events Order for NHA

Hospital and Community (Health Care and Other Services) COVID-19 Vaccination Status Information and Preventive Measures Order:

      The Provincial Health Officer released a new order, on October 14, 2021, for Health Care and other Providers.

  • All health care providers, employees and staff (broadly defined) working in a public health care setting must provide proof of vaccination or exemption by October, 26, 2021.
  • Students, faculty members, researchers or staff members of a post-secondary institution who are in a care location for training or research purposes must provide proof of vaccination.
  • A student must report their vaccination status to the HSPnet database and provide an operator with proof of vaccination, or an exemption upon request of operator.
  • This order does not have an expiry date.

 

Region-Specific Gathering and Events COVID-19 Order for Northern Health Authority:

New public health measures were introduced on October 15, 2021 in the Northern Health Region with the exception of Local Health areas west of Kitiwanga: Terrace, Kitimat, Haida Gwaii, Prince Rupert, Stikine, Telegraph, Snow Country and Nisga’a). 

  • Personal gatherings, both indoor and outdoor, are restricted to fully vaccinated people, including at private residences and vacation accommodation.
  • All indoor (limit 50 people) and outdoor (limit 100 people) organized events require a safety plan, attendees to wear a mask and present their BC Vaccine Card.
  • Sporting event spectators are limited to 50% capacity, must have a safety plan, and require attendees to wear masks and present their BC Vaccine Card showing full vaccination.
  • The measures are region-specific and effective as of 12:01 am on October 15, 2021 and remain in effect until Friday, November 19, 2021 at 11:59 pm.
  • This order DOES NOT APPLY TO STUDENTS, TEACHERS OR INSTRUCTORS at a school, or a post-secondary educational institution WHEN ENGAGED IN EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES.

 

COVID-19 Resources:

 

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

COVID-19 Update: Proof of Vaccination (Verifier App / New PHO Orders) + Rapid Testing Support

September 13, 2021

To: All certified private training institutions and new certification applicants

 

Please note the following COVID-19 updates for September 13, 2021:

Proof of Vaccination

By order of the Provincial Health Officer (PHO), some events, services and businesses are required to check a person’s proof of vaccination effective September 13, 2021.

  1. Visually – verify the person’s BC Vaccine Card presented on paper or on a person’s phone.
  2. QR Code – the business uses the BC Vaccine Verifier app to scan the BC Vaccine Card QR code presented on paper or on a person’s phone.

 

Rapid Testing Support:

  • Support for BC post-secondary institutions setting up rapid COVID-19 screening programs is available through the Creative Destruction Labs Rapid Screening Consortium (CDL RSC).
  • Health Canada funds CDL RSC to support organizations (free of charge to the organization) in the setup of rapid point-of-care testing.  
  • CDL RSC currently has 12 post-secondary institutions across Canada that are able to provide a buddy system and a community of support for BC institutions

 

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response.  Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

 

COVID-19 Resources:

 

 

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

COVID-19 Update: Launch of the BC Vaccine Card

September 8, 2021

To: All certified private training institutions and new certification applicants

Please note the following COVID-19 update for September 8, 2021:

 

Proof of Vaccination:

BC Vaccine Card

  • The new BC Vaccine Card was launched on September 7, 2021 and will allow vaccinated people to show their proof of vaccination at higher-risk social and recreational events, and settings when new COVID-19 vaccine requirement rules take effect on September 13, 2021.
  • Students living in on-campus student housing at B.C.’s post-secondary institutions will require:
  • Partial vaccination (one dose) by September 7, 2021; and,
  • Full vaccination (two doses) by October 24, 2021.
  • Proof of vaccination is not required to attend in-person classes, seminars or tutorials, or to access on-campus cafeterias.

 

Verifying BC Proof of Vaccination

  • Starting September 13, 2021 some on-campus events, services and businesses will be required to check a person’s proof of vaccination for access to their venue or space. 
  • Information on how to verify proof of vaccination, including how to download the verifier app for the BC Vaccine Card, is available online.

 

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response.  Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

COVID-19 Resources:

 

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

 

F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

 

COVID-19 Update - New PHO Orders re: Masks and Proof of Vaccination + Interior Health Measures + Additional Fall 2021 Public Health Guidance

August 25, 2021

To: All certified private training institutions, and new certification applicants

 

Greetings. Please note the following COVID-19 updates for August 25, 2021:

Mandatory Masks:

  • The Provincial Health Officer has issued new province-wide mandatory mask requirements for all indoor public areas effective August 25, 2021 including shopping centres, coffee shops, retail and grocery stores, pubs, and public transportation.
  • To support the full return to in-person education, research and on-campus services for B.C.’s post-secondary institutions, the new mask order will apply to all indoor public areas on post-secondary campuses including classrooms, labs, lobbies, hallways, stairwells, and elevators.
  • Further details will be available in the Provincial Health Officer Order currently under development, including mask exemption provisions.

 

Proof of Vaccination:

  • Starting September 13, 2021, proof of vaccination will be required in B.C. to access a broad range of social, recreational, and discretionary events and businesses throughout the province including:
  • Indoor and patio dining in restaurants, fitness centres and gyms, indoor ticketed sporting events, indoor theatre events, and indoor organized events like conferences and weddings; and,
  • Students living in on-campus student housing at B.C. post- secondary institutions.  Partial vaccination will be required by September 7, 2021 to align with the start of the fall academic term.
  • Local health authorities are working closely with post-secondary institutions to provide access to the COVID-19 vaccine for all students, faculty and staff.
  • Discretionary non-educational activities and businesses on post-secondary campuses captured by the new proof of vaccination requirements include restaurants, coffee shops, pubs, gyms, and indoor ticketed events.
  • The specifics of the proof of vaccination requirements will be outlined in a new Provincial Health Officer Order currently under development.
  • Post-secondary institutions may implement their own proof of vaccination requirements as a part of their communicable disease prevention plans.  Institutions seeking to introduce their own proof of vaccination policies are responsible for doing their own due diligence and consulting with public health. Public health has advised that while institutions may consider a vaccination policy for employees, they are not supportive of proof of vaccination requirements for students participating in educational activities (e.g., classrooms, labs, field schools, tutorials etc.).

 

Region-Specific Public Health Measures for Interior Health:

  • New public health measures were introduced on August 20, 2021 in the Interior Health region to respond to an increase in COVID-19 cases including clusters and outbreaks. 
  • The measures are a region-specific and time-limited approach to lowering the number of COVID-19 cases, and provide an example of how local health authorities will support post-secondary institutions in responding to COVID-19 outbreaks.
  • NOTE:  The Interior Health COVID-19 Gatherings and Events Order continues to provide an exemption to the 50-person limit for gatherings for post-secondary institutions engaged in educational activities.  However, please note that indoor and outdoor gatherings and events not directly related to educational activities (e.g. BBQs, social orientation events, etc.) will be limited to 50 people.

 

Additional Fall 2021 Public Health Guidance:

  • B.C.’s Provincial Health Officer has advised that the full return to in-person learning is not dependent on the province transitioning to Step 4 of the BC Restart Plan.
  • Classrooms, lecture theatres and educational orientation events are not considered gatherings and can operate with no capacity limits.
  • Students participating in health science programs must be fully immunized as required by the COVID-19 Vaccination Status Information and Preventative Measures Order dated August 20, 2021 in order to participate in student practicums and clinical placements.
  • Experts from the post-secondary sector and public health are meeting on a weekly basis to support the fall return to campus, including facilitating coordinated sector-wide approaches to emerging issues and the implementation of the proof of vaccination requirements.
  • The Return-to-Campus Guidelines are being updated to reflect the evolving public health guidance.

 

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response.  Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

 

COVID-19 Resources:

 

 

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

 

Confidentiality Notice: The contents of this email message and any attachments are intended solely for the addressee(s) and may contain confidential and/or privileged information. If you are not the intended recipient of this message, or if this message has been addressed to you in error, please immediately alert the sender by reply email and then delete this message and any attachments. If you are not the intended recipient, any use, dissemination, copying, or storage of this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited.

COVID-19 Update – Additional Revisions to PHO Workplace and Post-Secondary Institution Safety Order

May 5, 2021

To: All certified private training institutions, and new certification applicants

 

Please note the following COVID-19 update for May 5, 2021:

PHO Workplace and Post-Secondary Institution Safety Order revised as of May 2, 2021

Revisions were made to the PHO Workplace and Post-secondary Institution Safety Order to clarify definitions as well as daily health check requirements.  Changes include:

o   Revised definitions for “classroom,” “indoor common area,” ”school” and “workplace.”

o   A less prescriptive approach to daily health checks.

o   A requirement for post-secondary institutions to put in place measures to prevent students from crowding together or congregating in indoor common areas and classrooms.

This order does not have an expiration date.

 

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response. Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

 

COVID-19 Resources:

 

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

COVID-19 Update Updated PHO Workplace and Post-Secondary Institution Safety Order

April 27, 2021 

To: All certified private training institutions, and new certification applicants

Please note the following COVID-19 update for April 27, 2021:

PHO Workplace and Post-Secondary Institution Safety Order updated as of April 21, 2021

Changes were made to the PHO Workplace and Post-secondary Institution Safety Order to respond to an increase in community transmission and COVID-19 cases, and to support the WorkSafeBC requirement for COVID-19 Safety Plans to ensure consistent mask wearing in indoor common areas. This order does not have an expiration date.

Changes include:

    • A student must wear a face covering over their nose and mouth when in an indoor common area or a classroom in a post-secondary institution, subject to the exceptions noted in section 9.
    • Employers must require workers to wear a face covering over their nose and mouth in indoor common areas.
    • Employers must strongly encourage workers to work from their private residences, if possible, given the nature of the work involved.
    • Visitors to indoor common areas continue to be covered by the face covering requirements in the Emergency Program Act Ministerial Order No. M012

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response. Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

COVID-19 Resources:

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

COVID-19 Update – April 23, 2021 – New Travel Restrictions + Extension of PHO Province-wide Restrictions

To: All certified private training institutions, and new certification applicants

Please note the following COVID-19 updates for April 23, 2021:

  1. New Travel Restrictions
  1. New provincial travel order effective April 23, 2021

A new order will expand existing travel restrictions to ensure that British Columbians stay within their local areas and reduce non-essential travel.

o   Travel restrictions to stop non-essential travel between geographic regions in B.C. will be in effect until May 25, 2021.

o   All non-essential travel should be avoided. This includes travel for vacation and recreation purposes.

NOTE:  

  • Essential travel includes travel for post-secondary education and training.
  • Travel to attend classes or receive training through a post-secondary institution, including participating in practical learning activities such as fieldwork, practicums and clinical placements, is exempt from the travel restrictions as part of a broad exemption for post-secondary education and training.
  1. Government of Canada suspension of flights from India and Pakistan effective April 22, 2021 for 30 days

o   Mental health supports, including www.here2talk.ca, are available to B.C. post-secondary international students who are affected by the new federal flight restrictions between India, Pakistan and Canada.

o   B.C. will continue to monitor changes to federal travel restrictions and communicate with institutions to ensure BC is responding to all new federal requirements.

  1. Extension of PHO Province-Wide Restrictions

The existing province-wide restrictions have been extended until midnight May 25, 2021 to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response. Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

 

COVID-19 Resources:

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

P: 778-698-9870| F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

COVID-19 Update – April 13, 2021 – New Expedited Workplace Closure Process

To: All certified private training institutions, and new certification applicants

Please note the following COVID-19 update for April 13, 2021:

Effective Monday, April 12, BC’s Provincial Health Officer has put in place a new Expedited Workplace Closure process to break the transmission of COVID-19.

  • Public health officials may order workplace closures, assisted by WorkSafeBC prevention officers, for a period of 10 days or longer when transmission of COVID-19 occurs at the worksite.
  • Post-secondary institutions are notexempt.  However, closures may be restricted at the discretion of the local Medical Health Officer to one particular location where transmission has occurred.
  • For example, a closure order may be issued for:
  • A specific service or retail provider on campus (e.g., restaurant, pub, store).
  • A specific building on campus, fitness/recreation facility, or a teaching cohort
  • If a closure is ordered, WorkSafeBC will serve the closure notice and will then support the workplace to review and enhance safety plans, as needed.

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response. Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

COVID-19 Resources:

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

PO Box 9157, Stn Prov Gov’t, Victoria BC V8W 9H2

Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

COVID-19 Update – New Province-wide Restrictions in Place Until April 19, 2021

March 29, 2021 

To: AEST Education Quality Assurance AEST:EX <EQA@gov.bc.ca>

The BC’s Provincial Health Officer (PHO) introduced new province-wide restrictions to address rising COVID-19 case counts.  These restrictions are in effect until midnight April 19, 2021. Below is a summary.

Athletic Activities

    • All indoor adult group fitness activities are cancelled until April 19 at midnight.

    • Gyms and recreation facilities that offer individual workouts and personal training sessions can remain open as long as they have a COVID-19 Safety Plan that is strictly followed

Religious Gatherings and Worship Services

    • The variance allowing indoor religious gatherings and worship services between March 28 and May 13 is suspended.

    • Outdoor worship services under the current variance may continue.

Restaurants, Pubs, Bars and Food Courts

    • Restaurants, pubs, bars and food courts are closed for indoor dining until April 19 at midnight.

    • Outdoor patio seating and take-out or delivery is allowed with continued use of COVID-19 layers of protection and physical distancing.

    • NOTE:   Dining facilities for student housing and cafeterias serving students, faculty and staff at educational institutions are exempt from the closure order.

Social Gatherings Restrictions

    • No indoor social gatherings of any size at private residences is permitted other than between those who reside in the household.
      • A person who lives alone may have up to two other people visit if they are people with whom the person regularly interacts.
      • Up to 10 people can gather outdoors with continued use of COVID-19 layers of protection such as maintaining physical distancing and mask wearing.

In addition, the PHO strongly recommends:

    • Working from home through to April 19, where possible, unless it is essential to be in the workplace.

    • Avoiding all non-essential travel. This includes travel into and out of B.C. and between regions of the province.

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response. Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

COVID-19 Resources:

_____________________________________

Education Quality Assurance

Corporate Planning, International and Quality Assurance Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

3rd Floor, 835 Humboldt St

PO Box 9157 Stn Prov Govt

Victoria BC V8W 9H2

Email: EQA@gov.bc.ca

Telephone: (778) 698-9830

COVID-19 Update – Return to On-Campus Teaching, Learning and Research in September 2021

March 10, 2021 

To: All certified private training institutions, and new certification applicants

Greetings everyone.

September 2021 Return to Public Post-Secondary Campuses:

  • On Monday March 8, 2021 the Provincial Health Officer (PHO), Dr. Bonnie Henry, advised the presidents of all public post-secondary institutions to prepare for a full return to on-campus teaching, learning and research in September 2021.
  • The Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training also released a statement encouraging students and families to start planning for in-person instruction this Fall.
  • The PHO will work in partnership with sector health and safety experts, WorkSafeBC, partners and stakeholders to update the post-secondary COVID-19 Go-Forward Guidelines to support the safe and complete resumption of on-campus activities.
  • The updated Go-Forward Guidelines will be made available to support institutions as they work with their local medical health officers and WorkSafeBC to develop more detailed campus-level safety plans for the Fall.

 

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response. Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

COVID-19 Resources:

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

203 – 1155 West Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6E 2P4

P: 604-569-0033 | F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

Recent Changes to the Government of Canada Border Restrictions | International Students 

February 18, 2021

To: AEST Education Quality Assurance

Dear EQA Institutions:

This email is to provide an update on recent changes to the Government of Canada border restrictions related to international students on study permits. 

International students on study permits continue be allowed into Canada for institutions assessed to have appropriate measures in place to ensure that the students who attend the institution can meet applicable obligations with respect to the mandatory quarantine.   The list of designated learning institutions with a COVID-19 readiness plan is located here.   

Under new requirements for air travel that take effect February 22, 2021, when a student arrives in Canada, they must take a COVID-19 test before leaving the airport and spend 3 days in quarantine at a federal government-authorized hotel. With a clear test result, the student can proceed to the quarantine site identified in their quarantine plan.  Ten-days into their quarantine, the student will use a take-home test provided at their arrival in Canada. A further clear result is required before leaving quarantine at 14 days. 

The list of government-authorized hotels will be available to students on February 18, 2020. 

Institutions should inform students regarding these changes and review their Quarantine Plans to ensure that all information, including quarantine requirements and additional costs, for international students arriving in Canada to attend your institution are up-to-date.    

Details on these requirements, and the requirements for travellers arriving at land border crossings, are available on line: Government of Canada expands restrictions to international travel by land and air – Canada.ca

Action by institutions with an approved COVID-19 readiness plan:

  • Please review your institution’s plan for quarantine management and your student communications to ensure the new federal travel and quarantine-plan requirements are incorporated into your plans and student information.
  • Ensure your plans are updated on your website, and all student communication reflects the new requirements.
  • Ensure your students know to have a fully compliant Quarantine Plan, including bookings at the federal facility, before they begin their travel.
  • Continue to remain in contact with and provide support to your incoming students through their full quarantine period.
  • Continue reporting weekly the required data to EQA@gov.bc.ca

More information is available from the Government of Canada:

 

_____________________________________

 

Education Quality Assurance

Corporate Planning, International and Quality Assurance Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

3rd Floor, 835 Humboldt St

PO Box 9157 Stn Prov Govt

Victoria BC V8W 9H2

Email: EQA@gov.bc.ca

Telephone: (778) 698-9830

COVID-19 Update – PHO province-wide restrictions extended until further notice

February 5, 2021

To: All certified private training institutions, and new certification applicants

Greetings everyone,  

Please note the following COVID-19 update for February 5, 2021:

Extension of PHO province-wide restrictions

BC’s Provincial Health Officer (PHO) has ordered existing COVID-19 province-wide restrictions extended until further notice.

  • All gatherings and events are suspended to significantly reduce COVID-19 transmission related to social interactions.
  • All non-essential travel should be avoided. This includes travel into and out of B.C. and between regions of the province.

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response. Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

COVID-19 Resources:

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

203 – 1155 West Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6E 2P4

P: 604-569-0033 | F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

COVID-19 Update – PHO Update on Province's Vaccine Rollout Plan

Jan 25, 2021 

To: All certified private training institutions, and new certification applicants

Greetings everyone,  

Please note the following COVID-19 update for January 25, 2021:

PHO Vaccination Rollout Plan

On January 22, 2021, BC’s Provincial Health Officer (PHO) provided an update on the province’s CO

VID-19 vaccine rollout plan (please see attachment).

The plan has four phases and is focused first on protecting those most vulnerable to severe illness. Immunization for the general population is scheduled to take place from April to September 2021.

Please visit BC Centre for Disease Control website for more information.

During all phases we are all reminded to continue to:

  • Follow Public Health Guidelines including wearing masks, washing your hands, and maintaining social distancing.
  • Adhere to province-wide restrictions concerning visitors in private residences and allowable/prohibited events.
  • Avoid non-essential travel. This includes travel into and out of B.C. and between regions of the province.

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response. Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

COVID-19 Resources:

Ian Hendry

Senior Policy Analyst

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

PO Box 9157, Stn Prov Gov’t, Victoria BC V8W 9H2

P: 778-698-9870| F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

COVID-19 Update – Extension of Province-wide Restrictions + Updates re: Varsity Sport and Retail Occupancy Limits

January 7, 2021

To: All certified private training institutions, and new certification applicants

Greetings,  

Please note the following COVID-19 updates for January 7, 2021:

Extension of province-wide restrictions

On January 7, 2021 BC’s Provincial Health Officer (PHO) ordered an extension to existing province-wide restrictions to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Specifically, the sections of the gatherings and events order concerning visitors in private residences and allowable/prohibited events (sections A, B and C) that were to expire on January 8th have been extended to February 5, 2021 at midnight.

  • All events and social gatherings are suspended to significantly reduce COVID-19 transmission related to social interactions.
  • All non-essential travel should be avoided. This includes travel into and out of B.C. and between regions of the province.

PHO updates re: varsity sport and retail occupancy limits

Varsity sport

On December 24, 2020 BC’s Public Health Officer (PHO) amended the Gatherings and Events Order to expand and clarify restrictions on sports and fitness activities. These changes include permitting varsity sports subject to conditions, such as allowing participants to train or practice only with their home institution, ensuring participants maintain three-metre physical distancing, and prohibiting spectators.

             

For the sake of clarity, “varsity sport” includes only formally recognized sports rather than intramural or other informal fitness activities. It is defined as follows:

  • “Varsity sport” means a sport for which the eligibility requirements for participation are established by a national association for the regulation of intercollegiate athletics, or which is designated as a varsity sport program by a post-secondary institution, and includes fitness training, sport training, practice and competition.

Retail occupancy limits

Previous guidance on retail occupancy limits has been incorporated into the Gatherings and Events Order to emphasize the need for stores and malls to prevent overcrowding and congestion. This includes requiring operators to calculate maximum occupancy based on five square metres/person in publicly-accessible areas.

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response. Please share this update broadly within your respective institutions. 

COVID-19 Resources:

Ian Hendry

Senior Policy Analyst

Private Training Institutions Branch

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

PO Box 9157, Stn Prov Gov’t, Victoria BC V8W 9H2

P: 778-698-9870| F: 778-945-0606|Toll Free: 1-800-661-7441

privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

17 March 2020 at 10.10 pm PST

There are three COVID-19 updates:

  1. Federal Travel Restrictions
    • The federal government announced several travel restrictions in response to COVID-19 including limitations on:
      • International flights;
      • Entry of passengers to Canada, including those who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents; and,
      • Entry of passengers with COVID-19 symptoms.
    • Further details are available on federal government websites:
  2. Essential Service Workers
    Attached is new guidance from Dr. Bonnie Henry on essential service workers.
  3. COVID-19 Symptom Self-assessment Tool
    The BC Ministry of Health developed a COVID-19 symptom self-assessment tool to help determine whether you may need further assessment or testing for COVID-19.

COVID-19 Resources:

  • Guidance and recommendations from the Provincial Health Officer are available online at the BC Pandemic Preparedness website.
  • Monitor the BC Centre for Disease Control website for updates, information and resources.
  • For non-health related COVID-19 questions (e.g. supports, programs, etc), a new dedicated phone line is available at 1-888-COVID-19.
  • For advice regarding a potential COVID-19 case, contact your local Medical Health Officer.

Where We Stand on the COVID-19 Situation

  • Q College will remain open.
  • For the time being, staff and faculty members should continue to report to work as usual. If you have extraordinary circumstances that require accommodation, please speak with your supervisor.
  • If you are ill, please stay home. Those who develop symptoms during the 14-day monitoring period should immediately self-isolate (stay in a room that is not shared with anyone else) and call their healthcare provider or the provincial health line at 8-1-1 to discuss any need for testing and follow up.
  • A new toll-free phone line has also been established for Canadians (1 833 784 4397) to answer general questions about COVID-19.
  • All discretionary events on campus currently scheduled until May 1, 2020 are being cancelled, postponed or offered virtually.
  • The College is working through contingency planning for final exams. More information will be shared in the coming days.
  • Instructors had been asked to waive the doctor’s note requirement for students who are out sick for less than two weeks. Students are advised to stay home and away from others if they’re feeling ill.

Here are FAQs and other important information that I urge everyone to have a look at and take to heart.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Frequently Asked Questions

Updated on 16 March 2020 8.55p.m. PST

The following FAQs have been compiled to help students, faculty and staff during the current COVID-19 outbreak.

How high is the risk of contracting the coronavirus disease, COVID-19 in BC?

At this time, the BC Centre for Disease Control advises that the risk to British Columbians continues to be low. More information can be found on the BC Centre for Disease Control website.

Within British Columbia, Provincial Medical Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry, the BC Centre for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Vancouver Coastal Health are leading the coordinated response to COVID-19. UBC continues to take direction from the BC Provincial Government as we plan and consider next steps.

Are any Q College students, faculty or staff reported to be confirmed cases?

We are currently not aware of any cases amongst our students, faculty and staff, both within BC or abroad. In the event of a confirmed case, information would be provided to the public by the relevant health agency, according to their protocols.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Information on the prevention, transmission, symptoms, and treatment of COVID-19 can be found at the Government of Canada website Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).

What precautions can I take to stay healthy and prevent the spread of infections?

The advice from health agencies is:

  • Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds using soap and water.
  • If a sink is not available, 60-90% alcohol-based hand rubs (hand sanitizer) can be used to clean hands if they are not visibly soiled. If they are visibly soiled, you can use an alcohol-based disposable hand wipe to remove the dirt and then use an alcohol-based hand rub.
  • Do not touch your eyes/nose/mouth with unwashed hands.
  • When you sneeze or cough, cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or the crease of your elbow, and then wash your hands.
  • Stay home when you are ill to avoid spreading the illness to others.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick with an infection.
  • If you are ill, have symptoms of flu like a fever or cough, you should stay home.

What is Q College doing to minimize the risk of infection to students, faculty and staff?

To lower the risk from our campus environment:

  • Routine cleaning is scheduled daily and follows industry cleaning standards laid out by the Association for Higher Education Facilities Officers (APPA), which are a blended approach designed to manage risk. Our cleaning standards comply with APPA’s best practices.
  • We have posted information to remind people of how to reduce the spread of infections and continue to monitor and refill our current hand sanitizer stations located in the main entrances.
  • We are encouraging all campus users to follow the best practices in self-care being shared by the BC Centre for Disease Control and Vancouver Coastal Health.
  • We have placed hand sanitizers and sanitizing wipes in all the classrooms and in the pantry area.

What should I do if I have travelled outside Canada (including the United States) after March 12?

Any students returning from outside Canada after March 12 are advised to contact their instructor.

Faculty and staff are required to answer the following questions (while the self-isolation after travel outside of Canada is in place). If the answer is yes, you must bring this to the attention of your manager or supervisor. It will mean that you must self-isolate for the 14 days immediately following your return to Canada.

  • Are you and/or anyone in your household currently travelling outside of Canada and returning after March 12, 2020?
  • Have you or anyone in your household come into contact with anyone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19?
  • Do you have plans to travel outside of Canada in the foreseeable future?

Why is Q College not closing?

The safety and well-being of our campus community and the health of our broader community is our top priority. As such, Q College is continuing to follow the advice of BC’s top medical experts including the Provincial Health Officer and the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC).

At this time, universities and colleges are being encouraged by province to continue to take steps to remain open while promoting strategies to prevent the spread of the virus. In response, Q College has temporarily suspended non-essential travel and cancelled large public gatherings.

Administrative offices are open, though services and times may need modifying going forward.

Q College’s focus will remain on the health and well-being of our community and our students’ academic success.

What should I do if one of my students or colleagues shows symptoms of COVID-19?

Anyone who is concerned they, or someone they have been exposed to, may be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their health-care provider or call public health at 8-1-1. For more information and the latest updates, visit http://www.bccdc.ca

Will staff be permitted to work from home?

You must have a discussion with the Campus Director if you need to work from home during this outbreak.

What about events and large gatherings?

As of March 12, 2020, the Office of the Provincial Medical Health Officer, BC Centre for Disease Control and Ministry of Health has recommended the immediate cancellation or postponement until further notice of all events with more than 250 people in attendance.

At this time, planning for the 2020 Commencement Ceremony continues as normal, though we are considering alternatives should that be required.

Classes will continue as normal.

What if I’m on a practicum placement?

Students currently on practicum placements should contact their student services coordinator for further information.

What is the best way to ensure I get support while on Q College related travel, if it’s required?

No matter where you are planning to travel, you are advised to consult travel.gc.ca, which is the Government of Canada’s official source of destination-specific travel information. It provides important advice to help travellers make informed decisions and travel safely while abroad.

Travellers with Canadian citizenship are advised to register their travel with the Canadian government here https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/registration.

Is Q College distributing masks for people to wear to prevent the spread of infection on our campuses?

The college is not distributing masks. Some members of our community may opt to wear masks, and we fully support their right to do so. We ask the community to be respectful of students, faculty and staff who choose to wear masks.

If you have questions or concerns that are not currently addressed here, please contact info@qcollege.com.

To Our Valued Community…

We are closely monitoring and reviewing the changing situation to ensure we quickly put new procedures in place and have the answer to respond to questions and concerns from our staff, faculty and students.

Finally, I want to thank everyone for your patience and understanding. We’ve entered uncharted territory. We know these decisions will cause some disruption, and we apologize for that. The steps above are being taken out of an abundance of caution and in an effort to reduce risk.

To All Q College staff, faculty and students: Thank you. Your care for this community is extraordinary.

Rachael McPherson
Campus Director/SEA

British Columbia's PHO Vaccination Rollout Plan

On January 22, 2021, BC’s Provincial Health Officer (PHO) provided an update on the province’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout plan. 

The plan has four phases and is focused first on protecting those most vulnerable to severe illness. Immunization for the general population is scheduled to take place from April to September 2021.

Please visit BC Centre for Disease Control website for more information.

During all phases we are all reminded to continue to:

  • Follow Public Health Guidelines including wearing masks, washing your hands, and maintaining social distancing.
  • Adhere to province-wide restrictions concerning visitors in private residences and allowable/prohibited events.
  • Avoid non-essential travel. This includes travel into and out of B.C. and between regions of the province.

Thank you for the important role you play in supporting the provincial COVID-19 response.

COVID-19 Resources:

Eton College Plan for Case Management

Eton College is doing all we can to ensure that we are provided the most effective age case management during COVID-19. We ask our students, instructors, and staff to ensure they do their part as well.

Eton College will ensure to do the following:

  • Eton College will communicate with affected individuals.
  • We will gather information and will offer assistance and guidance on managing each particular case.
  • The campus Director will work with the required departments on any necessary infection control actions. This will include all exposed students self-isolated and go for required testing. Eton College will work with BCCDC on contact tracing of any exposed students and comply with other requirements of VCH may identify.
  • The Pandemic Response Plan is activated by the Campus Director when the College becomes aware that a member of the College community, based on specific symptoms or history, is legally required to self-isolate, or has a confirmed case of COVID-19 and has been on the campus in the last 14 days.
  • Eton College will complete the required cleaning of the campus if a student tests positive.
  • Eton College then contacts the individual who is self-isolating and offer assistance and guidance on the next steps, following BCCDC directions on case management.
  • Eton College will work with VCH  to determine whether an outbreak should be declared, how to implement mitigation measures, and how the outbreak will be monitored by the health authority.
  • Eton College will support VCH in contact tracing and follow the Contact Identification and Management Guidelines provided by the BCCDC.
  • We have increased online learning balanced against the need for social interaction for learning and development.
  • International students that arrived early in Canada are required to self-isolate for 14 days before they are able to attend the blended classes on campus.

Are you ready to begin your academic journey at Eton College? Download our Pre-Arrival Package here. 

If you have any questions, please email our COVID-19 safety team at covid-19helpdesk@etoncollege.ca or call our campus.

COVID-19 Safety Protocols

Here are the Eton College protocols to ensure your safety during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Accessing the Campus Safely

To ensure that we do our part to reduce the risk of spreading the virus we are asking our students to complete the following tasks.

Before Arriving on Campus

A student must complete a daily questionnaire online for Eton College prior to their arrival on campus.

Students can also use the BC COVID-19 self-assessment tool to ensure that they are answering the questions correctly.

Anyone with symptoms associated with COVID-19 as well as anyone who has traveled outside Canada in the previous 14 days or anyone identified as a close contact of a person with a confirmed case of COVID-19 must self-isolate in accordance with guidance from the BC Centre for Disease Control.

If any student, faculty, or staff answers “yes” to any of the items on our daily questionnaire, a self-assessment review will be provided with information on how to contact 811. In some cases, students may be required to speak to a medical provider for further health advice.

Eton College Vancouver Campus is working with local health care providers and student health services to ensure that faculty, staff, and students have easy access to COVID-19 testing.  We will be obtaining advice from the local public health authority around managing cases of COVID-19 in our institution.

Arriving on Campus

All students will be provided a schedule of when they will be able to access the campus safely. This schedule can not be changed.

All students will be required to wear a mask on campus or provide a medical note from their physician if they are not able to wear a mask. Students with the exception may be required to attend online classes.

There are markings outside each campus and students are asked to line up to ensure social distancing is followed.

Students will only be allowed to enter one and time. The administration will ensure you have completed the screening questions and ensure that you have sanitized their hands or wear gloves.

Students are then reminded of which class they are going to.

Students will also be reminded of the signage in each room. Each classroom will list the campus protocols in posters and on each monitor. Eton College will update our students on any changes on social media and by email.

On-Campus

Students will be required to ensure their mask is correctly on their face and remains on while on campus. If students leave the campus for any reason and return they will be asked to sanitize and ensure their mask is clean. Students will be required to sanitize their hands or wash them upon arriving.

The student lounge will be limited to three students at a time. In washrooms, we ask that only one student per class at a time. Ensure that we have proper social distancing.

Each classroom is updated to ensure that all students are following the required social distancing regulations. Students are asked not to move any equipment and stay in their assigned seats and classes.

It is important for students to follow their schedule for being on campus so we can ensure that we are able to provide the proper cleaning and sanitization of each classroom.

Are you ready to begin your academic journey at Eton College? Download our Pre-Arrival Package here. 

If you have any questions, please email our COVID-19 safety team at covid-19helpdesk@etoncollege.ca or call our campus.

COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Information Update

Eton College is in touch with the government of British Columbia to assist authorities in formulating the policies contained in the BC Restart Plan that is gradually reopening the province to international students.

British Columbia Reopens

The BC Restart Plan takes a phased approach to reopening. As of June 24, 2020, British Columbia has been on Stage 3.  What does this mean for the institution?

B.C. post-secondary institutions remain open and committed to offering students options for staying on track, graduating on time, and meeting their learning goals. The post-secondary sector developed guidelines that outline broad health and safety protocols for campus operations for the 2020/2021 academic year.

Post-secondary institutions will use these general protocols to develop detailed safety plans outlining the policies and procedures to protect the health and safety of faculty, staff and students.

Post-Secondary Studies During COVID-19 Pandemic

For the fall 2020 academic term, education and skills training will be delivered using a variety of formats including online, in-person instruction where health and safety permit, or a blend of on-campus and online instruction.

In preparation for the 2020/2021 academic year, public post-secondary institutions collaborated with key stakeholders, the BC Centre for Disease Control, WorkSafeBC, the Deputy Provincial Health Officer, and key education partners and stakeholders to develop comprehensive health and safety guidelines for campus operations during the pandemic.

On July 31, 2020, Go-Forward Guidelines for the post-secondary sector were made available to institutions including in the development of our rigorous safety and operational plans to minimize risk to students, faculty and staff, and our local communities.

The Go-Forward Guidelines recognized that the arrival of international students would need additional measures to meet federal quarantine requirements. The Public Health Agency Canada has also provided further information on requirements that each institution must meet in order to be allowed to host international students, including:

Pre-arrival planning and communication with students/co-arriving family members on legal requirements to quarantine or self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival.

Transportation upon arrival to quarantine location (including avoidance of public transit).

Quarantine supports (e.g. location options; resources for food/medical care; social/mental health supports).

Regular and robust monitoring during the 14-day period for COVID-19 symptoms, well-being and compliance.

The process for care should a student develop COVID-19 symptoms.

Contingency for additional supports if a student should become ill during the quarantine.

Final screening by a health care professional within 24 hours of the end of self-isolation.

You can find the Go-Forward guidelines here.

To facilitate an effective and consistent process that supports public health and safety, provincial health officials will review each institution’s health and self-isolation plan to ensure it contains the elements required by both the federal and provincial health officers.

The Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training will facilitate the necessary review and approvals of each institution’s plan with local and provincial public health officials.  

Health and Safety Reminders

As part of BC Restart Plan, post-secondary institutions are directed to apply these measures to reduce transmission in post-secondary settings:

  • Routine daily screening for all staff and students
  • Routine and frequent environmental cleaning
  • Explicit policy for students and staff who have the symptoms of a cold, flu, or COVID-19 with coughing or sneezing not coming into classes or taking part in extracurricular activities and sports.
  • Increased use of online learning balanced against the need for social interaction for learning and development.
  • Early arrival and self-isolation for 14 days of international students.

For public health guidance on COVID-19, please visit the BC Centre for Disease Control Colleges and Universities page.