A lot has changed since the COVID pandemic first broke out in the United Kingdom.

Not only have the government eased restrictions, but there is growing confidence that universities can reopen safely and return to normal.

As ACM is an institution dedicated to the “Learning By Doing” approach, we are keen to return to campus and deliver content that our students come to expect.

Thus, we are pleased to announce that ACM will fully return to on-campus learning this September.

Everything you know and enjoyed at ACM before the pandemic will make a comeback — bigger and better than before. So, what does this mean?

Well, you can once again look forward to…

  • Attending or performing at gigs
  • Masterclasses with industry professionals
  • Recording in our state-of-the-art studios
  • Freshers!

…and so much more.

Whether you’re a current student or a budding applicant, we assure you that ACM is committed to keeping you safe on campus. However, we are also aware that some students may need some time to transition back to pre-pandemic life.

We are committed to providing stellar learning and opportunities that help you achieve your ambitions: whether you’re ready to return to campus or need more time. So, what do you need to know before you return? We’ve put together this handy guide that answers all your questions:

COVID-19 FAQs

Updated 8th July 2021

What should I do if I’m feeling unwell or experiencing symptoms of COVID? 

It’s important that you do not come to campus if you are feeling unwell, even if you think you can get through the day. You may be putting others at risk by being on campus when you’re not in tip-top health. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID, you should follow the latest government advice and get a test as soon as possible. Make sure you keep us updated by calling 01483 500 800.

If you are under household quarantine, you should also talk to us. Talking to us is especially important if you have been advised to isolate or are likely to have COVID. This ensures that we can activate the appropriate protocols. 

I’ve tested positive for COVID, what should I do? 

Firstly, it’s important that you follow official procedures set out by the government. Do not come to campus. Report your result as soon as possible by calling 01483 500 800.

I have been asked to self-isolate, what should I do? 

If you have been asked to self-isolate by NHS Test & Trace then it is important you adhere to the advice that was given to you. Call us on 01483 500 800 as soon as possible and refrain from coming to campus. Your tutors will make arrangements for you to study at home while you self-isolate.

Should I still wear a mask?

To keep everyone safe, ACM will still enforce a face-covering policy. This means that any time you’re moving around on campus, you must wear a face mask or face covering. While you are seated and learning during a class, you are free to remove your mask. Please remember to put your mask/covering back on before moving around and/or leaving your classroom.

If a staff member asks you to temporarily remove your mask/covering for the purpose of identification at any time, please comply.

You are responsible for bringing your own mask(s)/covering(s) with you. ACM cannot provide masks.

What do I do when I arrive at campus?

When you arrive at the campus you will be greeted by one of our COVID Marshals. These Marshals are responsible for ensuring that users of our buildings comply with our COVID-Secure protocols.

The first time you enter an ACM building on any given day, you will be temperature checked by one of our COVID Marshals, using contactless thermometer technology, and provided with a sticker. You should place this sticker on the outermost clothing layer you will wear when inside our buildings so that it is visible to all staff. This sticker tells us that you have already been temperature checked.

Every time you enter an ACM building, please tap your Student ID card against the contactless readers on our external doors, even if the door is open. This will help us monitor who is on campus for test and trace purposes. You should also sanitise your hands each time you use a door. Hand sanitising stations are placed around the room of each campus.

What should I do when I move around campus?

We will continue to control the flow of people around campus to ensure everyone’s safety. If you can, move in single file throughout the building and avoid congregating in hallways.

Remember these three important rules:

  • Stay Masked.
  • Stay Left.
  • Keep safe.

High traffic areas and touchpoints (such as door handles or push bars on doors) will be cleaned regularly throughout the day by our dedicated sanitisation team.

How do I keep safe outside of campus?

ACM is asking you to stay vigilant and exercise a level of caution when off-campus. Whether you’re inside one of our buildings or living your life outside of ACM, please adhere to the government’s latest guidelines on COVID safety. Keep in mind that this is due to be relaxed fully on the 19th of July. When you’re on campus, you’ll need to comply with the COVID-Secure protocols as set out by ACM.

Can I still socialise with my friends and classmates?

Of course! From July 19, all rules on social interactions will be relaxed. This means you can spend time with friends and classmates outdoors or in our recreational areas. However, if you are indoors, please keep yourself and others safe by wearing a face covering and regularly sanitising your hands.

Can I still rent equipment? 

Of course! We recommend that you bring your own equipment where possible. However, we are still offering equipment rentals if you require them. All hired equipment must be returned to the tech hatch immediately after use so it can be thoroughly cleaned. Items that are cleaned will be stickered and stored separately from returned items awaiting processing. Users should sanitise their hands before and after handling shared equipment.

Can I still book rooms? 

Yes! Please ensure you book rooms in advance by calling up your campus reception. Room doors will be opened by staff in preparation for your arrival to reduce the number of touchpoints on door handles.

Our tech team will be cleaning rooms between classes/bookings and signage will indicate that cleaning has taken place.

I’m struggling financially, can ACM help me?

If you’re a current student and you’re struggling financially, it is important you get in contact with us as soon as possible. You may also be entitled to financial support through our Hardship Fund. Contact Student Support via email at studentsupport@acm.ac.uk or via phone on 01483 500 800.

I’m struggling with my mental health, how can ACM help me? 

If you are struggling with your mental health it is important you talk to us. We have a team dedicated to student welfare who will listen to your concerns, no matter how big or small. You can get in contact with them via email at studentsupport@acm.ac.uk or calling on 01483 500 800. We also have a dedicated hub on our website with more information.

Alternatively, if you require support outside of university hours, you can reach out through these external resources:

SAMARITANS
Website: www.samaritans.org
Phone: 116 123

STUDENT MINDS
Website: www.studentminds.org.uk

TOGETHERALL
ACM students can sign up for free at: https://togetherall.com/

NHS MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT ONLINE
Website: www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters

If you’re looking for more information, ACM safeguarding lead Chris East wrote a helpful guide all about transitioning back to campus.

Where can I keep up to date on the latest government advice? 

You can find all the latest information via the dedicated COVID-19 portal: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus

As always, we will keep you informed as we begin this transition to normality. Keep in touch by following our socials: Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.