In this section you can read the latest specific updates for all locations of Aeres Hogeschool (Almere, Dronten en Wageningen).
February 16, 2022
Further relaxation of corona measures
The government is gradually phasing out the corona measures. Below is an overview of what this means within Aeres:
Home work advice relaxed immediately
The advice 'work at home if possible' has been dropped. Education on location is the starting point. All work that is directly related to this therefore also takes place on location. Where this involvement is less present, the government advises a maximum of 50% of the work to be done on location. This takes place after consultation with their manager.
Aeres is pleased that all colleagues can work together again on location.
Relaxations as of February 18, 2022
As of February 18, 2022, the following relaxations will apply:
- At Aeres University of Applied Sciences, the maximum group size for educational activities is cancelled.
Relaxations as of February 25, 2022
As of February 25, two important relaxations will be implemented:
- The face mask obligation will lapse at all Aeres locations. The advice remains to wear a face mask in situations where keeping a distance of 1.5 meters is not possible, but everyone can weigh this up for themselves;
- The obligation to keep a distance of 1.5 meters will lapse at all Aeres locations.
Precautions for all Aeres sites
Despite the relaxation, there are still a number of precautions:
- Maximum ventilation and/or ventilation is provided in the buildings;
- There are special walking routes to give each other space;
- Stick to the distance rules and the rules for wearing a face mask until February 25;
- Aeres calls on everyone to continue to observe the basic rules:
- stay home if you have flu or cold symptoms (and test yourself or have yourself tested);
- wash your hands regularly;
- sneezing and coughing in the elbow;
- do not shake hands.
February 10, 2022
Binding Study Advice (BSA) postponed again this year
As in the past two years, first-year students in higher vocational education will be given an extra year to obtain their compulsory credits. With this, Aeres University of Applied Sciences follows the decision taken within the Association of Universities of Applied Sciences. "Suspending the binding study advice gives our students extra air. This is necessary because this academic year they have again suffered a great deal of inconvenience from the corona measures," says Maurice Limmen, chairman of the Association of Universities of Applied Sciences. The lockdown since mid-December 2021 and the omikron wave immediately following have ensured that many classes had to be taught online or could not even take place. Therefore, it was recently decided to also give the first year students of this academic year extra time.
January 17, 2022
Education on location allowed again
We are very happy to announce that we will be able to meet again at school starting Monday, January 17. Teaching may again take place on site.
In order to provide safe education, the following nationwide rules apply to all staff and students:
- Wearing a mouth mask is mandatory, even when seated. A mouth mask may only be removed when eating or drinking.
- Use disposable mouth masks and preferably the more protective medical mouth masks, type II. Read more about them here;
- Urgent advice to keep as much as possible 1.5 meters distance
- The urgent advice remains to do a preventive self-test twice a week.
- Self-tests can be requested free of charge by staff and students via www.zelftestonderwijs.nl/zelftest
- There is a maximum group size of 75 people, except for examinations and exams;
- Open days are educational activities and are therefore permitted under certain conditions. Time slots are used so that the 1.5 meter distance can be kept. The wearing of mouth masks is mandatory for everyone. Both when moving around and sitting down.
Tests and examinations
- Only while taking the exam, the mouth mask may be removed.
- Take your responsibility and do NOT come to school if you have any symptoms or need to be quarantined or isolated. Not even if you have an exam.
Precautions for all Aeres locations
- The following applies to workplaces and meeting rooms: keep a distance of one and a half meters. In addition, check with regard to meetings whether they can also be held online;
- Maximum ventilation and/or airing is provided in the buildings;
There are special walking routes to give each other space; - Classes on location is again possible. In addition, for other work, the general advice is to work at home. If you have good reasons to work at school, you may. The starting point is everyone's own careful consideration;
- Wearing mouth masks is mandatory for everyone;
- Aeres calls on everyone to continue to observe the basic rules:
- Stay home if you have flu or cold symptoms (and test yourself or get tested);
- Wash your hands regularly;
- Cough or sneeze into the elbows;
- Do not shake hands.
Please note that all staff and students by location have received a supplemental email notification from the Faculty Director. Please read it carefully for any location-specific exceptions.
January 5, 2022
Based on the press conference on Monday 3 January 2022 and reports from the “Vereniging Hogescholen” the following rules apply:
- Our buildings are open, from 8.00 to 17.30 hrs.
- Planned practicals can take place on location.
- Planned theory lessons will be offered online.
- Scheduled 1 on 1 (counselling) sessions between a teacher / mentor and student can take place on location if this is important for the quality of the session. Teacher and student determine this in mutual consultation.
- Examinations take place on location according to the schedule.
- The general advice is to work at home, but if you have good reasons to work at school, you may. Starting point is everyone's own careful consideration.
- Students are also advised to preferably study at home, but we offer the possibility to study at school. It is not the intention to make this a group activity! Again, we count on everyone's careful consideration.
When you come to school, please carefully observe the known measures:
- wear a mouth mask when you move around the building
- cough / sneeze into your elbow
- wash your hands regularly
- keep a distance of 1.5 metres
- do a self-test twice a week
And if you have symptoms, stay at home and get tested. It helps if you report a possible infection.
December 18, 2021
In order to combat an increase in the number of coronavirus infections, the government has had to decide to declare a nationwide lockdown. Below are the consequences of the measure for Aeres University of Applied Sciences:
- As of December 20, all classes are online, with the exception of practical classes, assessments and tests. Wearing a mouth mask is mandatory during practical classes.
- The buildings will remain open. All applicable precautions remain in effect.
- In principle, educational institutions will reopen for physical education after the Christmas break, on January 10. The government will take a decision on this on 3 January at the latest.
- Where teachers cannot manage the online class next week, they will notify students and possibly schedule an additional class the week of January 10.
26 November 2021
Education remains open, with extra precautions
To reduce the number of infections with the coronavirus, the government has decided to further tighten coronavirus measures nationwide. Education remains open, but there are some additional measures. Below is an overview of the measures that apply until at least December 19, 2021:
Evening meetings are cancelled:
As a result of the nationwide measures, Aeres will not organize open days or other meetings after 5:00 p.m. Alternatives will be sought for open days that were already scheduled during the evening hours;
Keeping a distance:
Nationally, it applies that everyone 18 years and older keeps 1.5 meters distance to adults and young people from 13 years. Within schools this obligation does not apply to pupils, students and teachers;
- For education support staff and/or for employees at non-educational Aeres locations, the distance rules do apply;
- During open days, the distance rules within schools do apply to adults accompanying students.
Mouthmasks:
For all Aeres locations, the wearing of mouth masks is mandatory in the hallways, canteen and other circulation areas;
Open Days:
Open days organized during the day remain possible, subject to applicable precautions;
Working at home or on location:
- Physical education at the teaching locations continues;
- For employees, the following applies to other work: work at home, unless there is absolutely no other option. Managers and employees will discuss together how to apply this advice in practice;
- The following applies to workplaces and meeting rooms: keep a distance of one and a half meters. With regard to meetings, also check whether they can be held online;
Basic rules:
Aeres calls on everyone to continue to observe the basic rules.
- stay at home if you have flu or cold symptoms.
- wash your hands regularly;
- sneeze and cough in the elbows;
- do not shake hands;
Self-testing:
The urgent advice to employees, pupils, students and trainees remains to test themselves twice a week. Students (mbo and hbo) and employees can request free self-tests at https://www.zelftestonderwijs.nl/.
Ventilation:
- Maximum ventilation and/or airing is provided in the buildings;
- Walking routes are adjusted to give each other space.
Aeres continues to follow the corona regulations and recommendations of the national government. Changes in measures will be communicated as soon as possible.
15 november 2021
Corona measures remain in force
In response to still-rising corona figures, the government announced further tightening of corona measures on November 12. For education, the situation remains largely unchanged. The measures in a row:
Mouthmasks
At all faculties of the college, the wearing of a mouth mask is mandatory in the corridors, canteen and other traffic areas in the buildings.
Open Days
Open days continue to be possible as usual; for all educational locations, it is appreciated at open days that staff, students and parents accompanying future students, wear a mouth mask when moving around.
Education on site
Physical education continues as usual. For employees, the advice for other work is: work at home unless there is no other way. Managers and employees discuss together how to apply this advice in practice.
1.5 meter
The advice for workplaces and meeting rooms is: keep one and a half meters distance. With regard to meetings, also check in advance whether they can be held online.
Be responsible and observe basic rules:
- Stay at home if you have a cold or flu;
- Wash your hands regularly;
- Sneeze and cough at the elbows;
- Do not shake hands
- Test yourself regularly when on location, preferably twice a week.
Maximum ventilation and/or airing is provided in the buildings. Aeres continues to follow the corona regulations and recommendations of the national government. Changes in measures will be communicated as soon as possible.
4 November 2021
At the press conference on 2 November, it became clear that the measures relating to corona are being tightened up. This is because of the increasing number of infections and thus the pressure on health care. We call on you all to read the rules below and to take your responsibility in this matter. Only then can we keep it safe together and continue to meet each other at school.
From Monday 8 November, the following rules will apply in all college buildings:
- Always wear a mouth mask in school when moving around, e.g. in the building, in the lecture hall or in the classroom. You can remove your mouth mask when you are seated at a fixed location and during a teaching activity.
- Try to keep 1.5 metres distance from the other person where possible. This is urgent advice.
- Test yourself regularly when you come to school. Make use of the free self-tests that you can order from https://www.zelftestonderwijs.nl/.
- And as now: apply the basic rules:
o Wash your hands regularly or disinfect if washing is not possible
o Sneeze into your elbow
o Stay at home with complaints and get tested! - Physical education continues, so the government's advice to employees to work at least 50% from home is not possible in many cases. Where there are opportunities, managers and employees will discuss how to apply the advice in practice.
- For workplaces and meeting rooms, the advice also applies: keep a distance of one and a half metres as far as possible and ensure that the room is well ventilated.
- With regard to meetings, check in advance whether they can also be held online.
For the time being, there is no question of a corona check to be allowed to come to school.
The government has indicated that further tightening of corona measures in the coming weeks cannot be ruled out. Aeres will continue to follow the corona regulations and advice from the national government and any changes in measures will be communicated as soon as possible.
16 September 2021
Easing of rules
On September 14, the corona rules were eased again. This means that as of September 25:
- mouth masks no longer have to be worn in the school; of course you can if you feel more comfortable;
- the maximum group size of 75 people in one room will lapse;
- the 1.5 meter measure no longer applies outside the school either.
Corona is not gone yet, keep it safe for everyone
We want everyone at our school to feel comfortable. Therefore, we explicitly ask all students, staff and external guests to take into account the general rules around corona. In doing so, please take responsibility:
- Hygiene: wash your hands often, sneeze/cough into your elbow.
- Stay at home in case of complaints, get tested at the GGD and comply with the quarantine rules;
- Test yourself regularly preventively when you come to school. Make use of the free self-tests you can order at https://www.zelftestonderwijs.nl/ or buy them at supermarkets/drugstores/pharmacies.
And: until September 25, the current rules apply, so wear a mouth mask in the school when you move around!
23 August 2021
Hooray, we're starting up again!
Starting Monday, August 30, students, faculty and staff at universities of applied sciences will no longer have to maintain a 1.5-meter distance in buildings. This will open up more opportunities for physical education. This is very good news! It's nice that after this long period of working from home and homeschooling, we can meet at our locations more often again.
Which Corona measures will remain?
We are not abandoning the rules entirely. There are certain additional measures nationwide that we must abide by. We want to provide a safe and responsible environment for students, faculty and staff. In the coming period, the following measures will (continue to) apply at all colleges:
- First, of course, the prevailing hygiene and health measures. Wash your hands often, sneeze into your elbow.
- Stay home in case of complaints and get yourself tested.
- Follow the walking routes at school.
- Wearing a mouth mask is mandatory when moving around, for example, in the building, in the lecture hall or in the classroom. At a fixed seat and during a teaching activity, the mouth mask can be taken off.
- Make use of the free self-tests that you can order for free from https://www.zelftestonderwijs.nl/.
- Going to college? Get vaccinated!
- Outside the school keep 1.5 meters distance from each other. Here the usual rules for the whole society apply.
30 June 2021
Order your self-tests still for free before July 31!
It is important to make sure you are not carrying Corona, even if you do not have any Covid-related symptoms. In this way you prevent unintentionally infecting others. If you have no complaints and for example have an appointment with several people or a lesson at school you can do a self-test. We would greatly appreciate it if you would do this. In this way you contribute to reducing the spread of the virus.
You can order a free set of self-tests until July 31st at https://www.zelftestonderwijs.nl/. After that you can of course buy them at various stores and pharmacies.
23 June 2021
Relaxations in Corona policy starting Saturday, June 26
The press conference last Friday, June 19, brought us much good news. A nice prospect with a well-deserved summer vacation ahead of everyone! We list what this means for Aeres University of Applied Sciences:
Letting go of one and a half metres in higher education
The most important piece of good news is that the 1.5 meter measure in higher education will in principle no longer apply from 16 August. On August 13th, the Dutch Government will take a final decision on this based on the situation at that time.
We are preparing for a 'normal' start of the next academic year without corona restrictions. Should the 1.5 meter rule still remain, the currently applicable 1.5 meter scenario with regard to classrooms and rostering will apply. Until the summer break, the 1.5 meter scenario will remain in place anyway.
Mouthmasks no longer mandatory at school from June 26 unless...
The government announced that as of Saturday, June 26, the obligation to wear a mouth mask will only apply in situations where the 1.5 meter distance cannot be maintained. This includes public transport, airports and railway stations. In our school, wearing a mouth mask from June 26 until the summer vacations is no longer mandatory, except in situations where the 1.5 meters cannot be maintained: think of practical education and in the elevators. Students and staff can of course choose to wear a mouth mask themselves. That is fine. For now, we are assuming that after the summer vacations, the requirement to wear a mouth mask will also be dropped if the 1.5 meter rule is abandoned.
Keep on using self test
It is important that students and staff test themselves using self-tests after vacations and at the start of the new academic year. We would like to call on everyone to continue using the self-tests, especially after returning from vacations abroad and at the start of the academic year. Students and employees can request free self-tests through SURF, www.zelftestonderwijs.nl, until the end of July. Self-testing is also important if you have introduction days, a fieldwork activity or excursion at the beginning of the new school year.
We hope that developments surrounding the virus and vaccination rates continue to evolve favorably so that we can all start enjoying a well-deserved summer vacation!
21 May 2021
Take advantage of the free self-tests
As previously communicated, it is possible for students and staff in higher education to request free self-tests. Preventive testing helps to reduce the spread of the Coronavirus.
You can request a free set of self-tests through the website www.zelftestonderwijs.nl. There you will find information, an application portal and frequently asked questions and answers. You log in with your school account, which unfortunately sometimes seems to go awry. Just continue to fill it out, the transmission seems to go well. A self-test is not required to come to school. But we do appreciate it, it helps to further open up our society.
The self-test is for preventive use. In case of complaints you still go to the GGD for a PCR test.
The corona policy on foreign internships
With corona infections declining and the number of vaccinations increasing, the ability to travel internationally is again being eased somewhat by the Dutch government, as well as in other countries. As always, we remain in line with government policy. And while there is easing, there is also uncertainty. Travel advice is linked to color codes green, yellow, orange and red and these can change in the meantime. On this site you can always see the current codes of the countries. Countries with green and yellow travel advice are in principle allowed again as a travel destination. At the same website you will find per country the current COVID measures; please inform yourself and adhere to these.
What does this mean for an internship abroad?
If, according to the government, travel to green and yellow areas is allowed again, you as a student may choose to do an internship in one of these countries. However: if the situation changes in the preparation for the internship or during the internship and when a student is abroad, the risk and the costs of, for example, returning to the Netherlands will be borne by the student. Aeres University of Applied Sciences is not responsible for this.
10 May 2021
Self-tests
Starting this month, the Dutch government is making self-tests available to staff and students in higher education so they can test themselves preventively for Covid. Self-testing in education is part of a broader introduction of self-testing in Dutch society as an additional tool to gain insight into the spread of the coronavirus and its control.
How do you get a self-test and do you have to pay for it?
Every employee and student can request a set of self-tests free of charge through the website www.zelftestonderwijs.nl. There you will find information, an application portal and frequently asked questions and answers. Also available in English.
Is taking a self-test mandatory in order to attend school?
No, taking a self-test is not required to come to school. Because it helps to further open up our society, we appreciate it when people take a self-test, but we do not enforce it.
We emphasize that in case of complaints it is important to do a PCR test at the GGD and not a self test. These are for preventive use only.
We understand that the national website www.zelftestonderwijs.nl in some cases gives an error, Aeres University of Applied Sciences can not help this unfortunately. Please try again later.
21 April 2021
Classes on location again after the May holidays
Higher education will reopen from April 26 for the possibility of physical education on location for up to one day a week. This became clear yesterday in the press conference. We are very happy about this! For Aeres University of Applied Sciences it applies that the classes on location start after the May vacations or the week after. Per faculty there will be communication about the exact implementation per location.
Self-tests
There is a lot of talk in the media about the self-test. Preventive use of self-tests can help to suppress the number of infections. That is why they are being introduced. "It is voluntary, but incredibly important to get tested," said Lyle Muns, president of student union LSVb. "We have to take our social responsibility. By self-testing we keep track of the virus, which makes more physical education possible."
Self-testing and working and studying at Aeres University of Applied Sciences
The self-testing is voluntary. You do not need to show a negative test result to gain physical access to classes. Remain responsible for yourself. Do not come to school if you have symptoms or if you have been in contact with an infected person. Get tested in a GGD test lane. Everywhere keep 1, 5 meters distance, wear a mouth mask and wash our hands regularly.
Working at an internship
If you do your internship in a company or school, the specific rules of your employer apply in addition to the general corona rules. For our students who are doing an internship in a VMBO or MBO school school, the rules may be different from how they are at the University of Applied Sciences. Always be alert to the rules that apply to your employer.
How do you get a self-test?
The self-tests are free and can be ordered by employees and students online. The tests will become available to all students and staff at higher education institutions in early May. As soon as the ordering method is clear, we will let you know here on the website. And again: the self-test does not replace the test of the GGD. Everyone who gets complaints that could indicate the coronavirus, should immediately make an appointment to be tested at the GGD.
Why are staff and students in higher education being asked to self-test?
Now that higher education has partially reopened, it also means that a large group, about 1 million students, are more mobile again and that brings with it an increased risk of infection. This risk can therefore be contained by the mass use of self-testing. Students also consistently indicate in the corona crisis that they would like to be part of the solution in countering the pandemic. And if we are successful in reducing the number of infections, through vaccination and among other things through the use of self-testing among students, then more prospects for education may be offered more quickly.
Taking the test is voluntary. It is not monitored by the institutions of higher education. Therefore, it remains important that the other corona measures in the schools are maintained and that each student and employee takes his or her own responsibility.
14 April 2021
Last night's press conference, April 13, showed no real changes for education at our college from the March 24 message below.
Education on site
In short, if the infection rates allow, higher education will reopen as of April 26. For Aeres University of Applied Sciences, classes on location will start after the May vacation, with some exceptions. We assume an average of 1 day per week physical on site and the practical classes continue as now. There will be communication per faculty about the exact implementation per location.
Self tests
We continue to emphasize that everyone who comes to school has a personal responsibility. If you have complaints, you don't come and get tested first in a GGD testing line. You also do not come if you have been in contact with an infected person. Everywhere we keep 1, 5 meters distance, wear a mouth mask and wash our hands regularly.
There is no clarity yet on the use and distribution of self-testing. Test results are not checked at school. This much is already clear. In this Aeres University of Applied Sciences follows the line of higher education in the Netherlands, formulated by the Vereniging Hogescholen. Again the appeal: take responsibility in this matter, for yourself and for each other.
23 March 2021
On March 23, it was announced in the press conference that higher education is not allowed to open for on-site education at this time. The numbers do not allow it unfortunately. So nothing will change now in education and current schedules.
This may be the case from the week of April 26, the week before the May vacation. Only if the number of infections decreases sufficiently in the meantime. Probably start the lessons on location after the May vacation, with some exceptions. We then assume an average of 1 day per week physical on location and the practical classes continue as now. On April 13 the next press conference will be held and hopefully more will be clear. We also expect more clarity on the possibility of self-testing and how it will be used. Keep an eye on the announcements in the week of April 14. Each faculty will then communicate the exact details per location.
For now, hang in there, there will come a time when students and faculty can start meeting at school again!
24 February 2021
The press conference held on February 23 made clear that no flexibilities are yet possible for higher education. This applies at least until March 15. The next press conference will follow on March 8. With that, our current policy within Aeres University of Applied Sciences with regard to education, examining and working from home unless there is no other option, remains unchanged. We hope for better times!
3 February 2021
The press conference held on February 2 made it clear that, unfortunately, no flexibilities are yet possible for higher education. that, the current information in the previous updates remain in place. Of course, we will keep a close eye on the developments. And as soon as an easing is possible for opening up, priority will be given to our education activities.
25 January 2021
Extension of temporary compensation scheme for study costs
The temporary compensation scheme for students in MBO, HBO and WO will be extended until August this year. Students whose studies are delayed due to the corona measures and who obtain their diploma between February 2021 and the end of August 2021 will receive a compensation for study costs directly from DUO. See more: https://www.duo.nl/particulier/measures-coronavirus/compensation-for-students.jsp
14 January 2021
The lockdown situation has unfortunately been extended until February 9. All staff and students are yearning for the time when we can meet 'live' again. Because concerns about the spread of the virus are as high as ever, the university board has decided to extend the current teaching and work situation until spring break which begins on February 22. If, on Tuesday February 9, it appears that more than is currently possible in terms of activities on location, we will make use of this as much as possible. Of course, this will depend on the specific location situation and the freedoms allowed at that time.
15 December 2020
Yesterday Prime Minister Rutte announced a lockdown until 19 January. We realize that for many of us this is may be a difficult situation. We all hope for a spring in which more real contact will be possible. For Aeres University of Applied Sciences the lockdown until the 19th of January has the following consequences:
Education
From Wednesday December 16 until the start of semester 2 on February 1, all classes take place online, with the exception of the practical classes.
Exams and assessments
In principle, exams and assessments may take place on location. In a number of cases, they have already been planned online, which of course remains the case.
Internships and workplace learning
For internships and workplace learning the rules of the industry or location where the student is doing an internship apply. We realize that students may be concerned about the effect this may have on their study progress. We keep an eye on this. For specific questions, students can contact their study career counselor/mentor.
Traveling abroad
No trips abroad are possible until end March. In practice, this means that internships abroad will unfortunately no longer be possible this academic year.
Working on location
The work at the locations was already limited and takes place in consultation with the organization. For now, until the 19th of January, it is only allowed to work at school if it is strictly necessary. In all other cases employees work from home.
Recruitment activities
In any case until 19 January, all recruitment activities regarding new students will only take place online. This also applies to student-for-a-day programmes and guided tours of the locations.
Other regulations
If you are on location, the familiar rules continue to apply: only without complaints are you welcome, always keep a distance of 1.5 meters, wash your hands, disinfect regularly and wear a mouth mask when you move around.
And finally
For now we wish everyone a Merry Christmas, pay a little attention to each other and above all, stay healthy.
November 26, 2020
Use of mouth mask mandatory from December 1
We would like to draw everyone's attention to the fact that the use of a mouth mask in public areas is mandatory throughout the Netherlands from December 1st. So also at the locations of Aeres University of Applied Sciences. Mudguards, bandanas or shawls do not legally fall under the definition of a mouth mask.
The rule remains the same: Wear a mouth mask when walking around at the locations of Aeres Hogeschool. This also applies if you can't keep a 1.5 meter distance somewhere. Once you are in a classroom or at your workplace, you can take off the mask. We assume that you take care of your own mouth mask.
Binding Study Advice postponed
This week the staff of Aeres University of Applied Sciences and all first year students will be informed about the recent information about the Binding Study Advice (BSA). There will be noises about abolishing it. That is not an issue right now.
However, the BSA has been postponed for the first year students who started in this academic year 2020-2021. The information about this has been provided by mail to the students to whom it relates.
October 14, 2020
Press conference 13 October 2020
The situation regarding Corona is serious in the Netherlands. It is therefore important that we all follow up on the measures announced yesterday by Prime Minister Mark Rutte. We are pleased that we can continue to provide education on location. Nothing will change now in the current agreements on timetables and exams.
To ensure that Aeres University of Applied Sciences can continue to keep its locations open for education, we would like to ask all employees and students the following:
- Urgent advice to wear a mouth mask in the school
Wear a mouth mask when walking around the locations of Aeres University of Applied Sciences. And when you can't keep a 1.5 meters distance somewhere. Once you are in a classroom or at your workplace, you can take off the mask. We assume that you take care of your own mouth mask. - Keep 1.5 meters distance
We cannot emphasize it enough: always keep 1.5 meters distance from each other. And please remind each other of this.
- Only come on location for education or when it is really necessary for your work
It is already in place, but the emphatic request to all staff and students to come to school only when necessary. In this way we limit the number of travel movements and social contacts. - Do not come to school with complaints that may indicate Corona or if you have been in contact with someone who has tested positive.
Adhere to the rules issued by the RIVM regarding Corona. If you have complaints, check the decision tree to see what to do.
For the sake of clarity, nothing will change for students in terms of education and the same applies to students who use public transportation. We hope we can keep it that way.
Above all, we closely follow national and regional developments, in line with the guidelines of the RIVM. Should this mean that adjustments are necessary in the agreements mentioned above, these will be made and communicated to staff and students via this page.
September 29, 2020
Additions from Aeres University of Applied Sciences to tightened Covid-19 rules within Aeres
In addition to the tightened measures within Aeres (see the update of September 29th below), the following applies to all locations of Aeres University of Applied Sciences:
- The assessments as they are now planned in a number of weeks, will take place in the same way for the time being.
- Students who do not have lessons on location, work from home
- For students who do an internship, the rules of the organization where the internship takes place apply.
- The arrangements for travelling to and from abroad also remain unchanged for the time being.
- Support staff works from home unless presence on location is necessary. This also applies to teachers and researchers who do not need to provide education on location.
- Mouth masks are not mandatory, but for everyone: feel free to wear them when you are on location. We assume that you take care of your own mouth masks.
Above all, we closely follow national and regional developments, in line with the guidelines of the RIVM. Should this mean that adjustments are needed to the agreements mentioned above, these will be made and communicated to staff and students via this page.
September 25, 2020
Accelerated purchase of COVID-19 test for Aeres employees possible
It is important that the guidelines of the RIVM are followed and that in case of complaints an employee is tested at the GGD. A priority procedure for secondary education has already been made available so that tests can be taken more quickly. Aeres now enables all employees, in case of complaints as indicated according to the RIVM protocol, to test themselves faster.
In short: when there is no possibility to have a test taken via the GGD within 1.5 days, or when the test location is at an unrealistic travel distance, an employee can, in consultation with the manager, decide to use a private test center HetHuisartsLab with branches all over the Netherlands. Here an employee can register online, where the available test locations are immediately visible to schedule a test appointment as soon as possible. The employee requests the test and pays for it in advance. The test can be declared later. Through your manager you will receive information about the procedure.
August 28, 2020
Financial compensation for students because of Corona - message from the Dutch Ministry of Education
Some of the students who are in the final phase of their studies may be delayed due to the corona measures. As a result, they experience negative financial consequences. For example, they will have to pay tuition fees for a longer period , while the (when applicable) right to the basic grant and/or supplementary grant expires. The Ministry of Education, Culture and Science makes money available to help these students financially. Dutch Students who qualify for this receive a personal payment notification from DUO. For international students who feel this situation applies to them, please contact the international office to look into the situation and receive personal advice.
August 17, 2020
Corona and the start of the new school year
Just before the summer holidays, we were hoping for a further weakening of the coronavirus, but over the past few months, covid-19 has just picked up again. What does that mean for the coming period?
The agreements we made before the summer about education, introduction and working from home as much as possible can remain as planned because they are already based on the guidelines that still apply. The small-scale introductory activities that we are organising because we would still like to offer first-year students an introduction within the current possibilities have been submitted to the security regions and will, of course, only take place if they have been approved. All students and staff have been informed about this.
We abide by the rules
It should be clear, we stick to the rules: one and a half meters away from each other, stay at home and get tested if you have (slight) complaints and regularly wash your hands and sneeze or cough in your elbow.
Of course we hope at some point to get more room for learning and working, as we were used to before the corona crisis. But for the time being, unfortunately, this is not an option.
Ventilation in the buildings of the University
In the media there is a lot to do about the possible spread of covid-19 via ventilation systems. The corona situation has made it clear that good air quality is important in spaces where people learn and work. In order to be able to teach safely at the educational locations, Aeres University of Applied Sciences is extra focused on this. We follow the guidelines of the RIVM.
A group of scientists at the World Health Organization (WHO) and at national institutes such as RIVM has emphasized that the role of aerosols (small drops) in the spread of the coronavirus must be taken seriously. However, following epidemiological, virological and modelling studies, the RIVM concludes that the risk of infection via aerosols is much lower than via large droplets (e.g. from coughing and sneezing) or touch.
RIVM specifically discusses the role of ventilation systems and maintains its earlier position that there is no reason to tighten up the standard for ventilation. There are no indications that ventilation systems contribute to the spread of the virus. However, RIVM does emphasise the role of ventilation; good ventilation is necessary for air renewal and contributes to a pleasant and healthy indoor climate. RIVM does advise to prevent recirculation of air.
The situation at Aeres University in Almere, Dronten and Wageningen
Each building has its own ventilation options. Where air treatment takes place, outside air is sucked in and filtered, after which it is extracted again and discharged to the outside. So there is no recirculation of 'used' air. The mechanical ventilation is set in such a way that it runs 24/7 at full power. Locations without air treatment have the option of opening windows. The advice is to regularly open a window in order to ventilate sufficiently. These measures ensure a continuous supply of fresh outside air and rapid removal of used air, which is important to prevent any possible spread of viruses.
Addressing each other
The way in which we are going to provide education is responsible, provided that people keep to the basic agreements. Everyone is responsible for that. All staff, students and any visitors. This means that we have to be able to call each other to account if someone - consciously or unconsciously - fails to abide by the rules. In a pleasant and mature way, of course. We do this to help each other. To create a safe learning and working environment for everyone.
So stay at home if you have a cold or other (mild) complaints and get tested for the coronavirus. You can make an appointment via the national number 0800-1202. You can also make an appointment online with your DigiD.
Back from abroad
Have you been on holiday abroad? Check on the website of the Dutch government whether you need to spend ten days in quarantine. This applies to countries with code orange, but also to some countries with code yellow. Please take the advice seriously. Do you have to go into quarantine? If so, report this to the international office and make agreements about how you can do your work.
Travelling abroad
It is not allowed to make work or study trips to countries with the codes orange or red. If you are travelling to a country with a yellow travel advice, you will need permission from the International Office.
August 7, 2020
Introductions Aeres University of Applied Sciences at locations in Almere, Dronten and Wageningen continue unchanged
Following the press conference of Prime Minister Mark Rutte and Minister Hugo de Jonge on August 6th, we can report that these statements have no consequences for the introductions at our faculties in Almere, Dronten and Wageningen. Possibly with the exception of the piglet market in Dronten, which will be reported later.
The introduction period has been carefully prepared and coordinated with municipalities and safety regions. The advice of the safety regions is leading in our decision-making: for the time being we intend to proceed as planned, unless the safety regions decide otherwise. Because we find it very important that our prospective students are given the opportunity to get to know the university, the teachers and their fellow students before the start of their studies, small-scale physical activities have been organised. In doing so, we take into account the 1.5-metre measure and the hygiene measures. Of course we feel responsible for the safe course of the introduction period in view of the Corona virus.
In addition, the Prime Minister once again made it clear that the responsibility for containing the spread of the Corona virus lies with everyone. We will therefore also ask all participants during the introduction period to observe the hygiene rules and the 1.5-metre measure and to stay at home and have themselves tested in the event of complaints.
From 17 August our locations will be available by mail or telephone for any questions you may have.
We look forward to a pleasant and responsible meeting with our new students!
July 6, 2020
Aeres UAS maintains the travelling advice with regards to international travelling, as described earlier on this website of June 12. As of September 1 2020, travelling abroad in some cases is allowed for internships, excursions and work visits. Travel advice provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is leading in decisions with regards to travelling of both employees and students.
This means that travelling when a code red or orange is indicated, no permission will be given to travel. When a code yellow is indicated, travelling is only permitted after discussion and with the approval of the involved team manager and lecturer.
In case of a newly imposed lockdown, Aeres UAS is not responsible nor liable for costs involving repatriation and other costs involved or incurred as a result of this lockdown.
June 12, 2020
Travel advice provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is leading in decisions with regards to travelling of both employees and students. As Aeres UAS we would like to reiterate we stand firm on our former decision, as described earlier on this website, that no travelling abroad is allowed for internships, excursions, studying abroad as part of your study programme and work visits until September 1, 2020. This means that both students and staff members are not allowed to travel abroad for internships, work visits, studying abroad as part of your study programme or excursions abroad. The phasing out of the COVID19measures of several countries does not mean we are without any danger of new infections. The re-opening of borders for summer holidays by some countries will not change this decision. With this decision, Aeres UAS tries to prevent that in these uncertain times students or staff members need to be evacuated i.e. repatriated, or be possibly stuck abroad due to a second wave. Travelling abroad as part of internships applies to this policy.
In due course this decision will be reassessed and evaluated with regards to the period after September 1, relying heavily on official policy and travel advice from our ministry of foreign affairs and other independent organisations.
May 25, 2020
On May 19, 2020 our government has announced phasing out the imposed measures for higher education, opening and (re)starting educational activities with a limited capacity as of June 15. These imposed measures are in place until September 1st. We will use this coming period to plan and organize the examination periods of June/July and August as well as the planning of educational activities in period 1 or semester 1 of the next academic year. Expecting and assuming that these imposed measures will still be in place at that time.
Education and examination June/July
Aeres UAS reiterates the decision made earlier that all educational activities will be done online until the summer. However, we will organize (practical) exams within certain time limits albeit in a very limited capacity. You have been informed about what this will mean for you with regards to location, online or in an alternative manner. The T4 examination schedules, with a very limited amount of exams on location, will be arranged accordingly. The T5 exams will be organized on location, however due to new protocols and safety measures the timetable needs to be expended. Consequently, some exams might take place in the evening. The new imposed measures contain time slots depending on the usage of public transport as well as the amount of people in a building keeping social distance. Educational activities are allowed to take place between 11am and 3pm and after 8pm. Resulting in students not using public transport during rush hours. Consequently, we can organize education activities as of 11am until the evening, provided students do not use public transport before 7pm. Looking at the end of the semester and your T4 exams, we would like to wish you the best of luck in preparing your exams, assignments and assessments!
Period 1, academic year 2020-2021
Currently we are preparing for a combination of education on location as well as online. Practical education (labs and so on) and trainings will take place on location. What can be done online will remain in an online mode of operation. This has to do with the fact that there is a new maximum capacity of people in our buildings due to the imposed social distance, as well as the limited capacity of public transport. This may mean that we might have or will use different timetables per location. Currently there are ongoing discussions with the Regional Safety committee and the spokesperson of public transport organizations. We hope to achieve that scheduling can be done all day for Dronten as relatively few students use public transport. The size of groups for classes on location have a limited capacity due to the social distance rules of 1.5 meters. The size may, depending on the size of the classrooms, vary. This will be mapped out per location. No rights can be derived from the aforementioned agreements. Our government monitors the situation closely and should the situation change negatively, new and stricter measures will be put in to place.
Our motto remains, together we can do this, together we can control COVID-19.
May 18, 2020
The current measures for higher education have not changed since the update of 22 April. This means that we refer you to the update of April 22th below. Education and examination remain online and we will continue to work from home as much as possible. This applies at least until 1 September.
However, there is a new announcement regarding the intake of students in a higher professional education bachelor's or master's programme who were unable to complete their previous programme as a result of the corona crisis.
Entry possible despite failure to complete the previous program
Final-year students from associate degrees, senior secondary vocational education (mbo) or higher professional education (hbo) programmes who have been delayed due to the Corona measures have until 1 January 2021 to obtain their diploma. In the meantime, they may already start in the bachelor's or master's programme of the hbo. To this end, the student must request a graduation advice from his or her current study programme which must indicate whether it is plausible that the student will be able to complete the study programme before 1 January 2021. Together with the outcome of the study choice interview at the new programme of study, this will determine whether the student is eligible for a Bachelor's or Master's degree. If a student has not obtained the diploma on January 1, 2021, the student must still leave the bachelor or master.
If this raises any specific questions, please contact your personal coach/mentor.
New update after the Ascension weekend
Wednesday, May 20, Prime Minister Rutte will give another press conference. After the ascension weekend we will indicate here the possible consequences for Aeres University of Applied Sciences.
April 22, 2020
Last Tuesday, Prime Minister Rutte announced that the imposed measures, as they now apply for us, will be extended until May 20. The ban on events will be extended until September 1. There are not many changes compared to the current situation. However, we still would like to list a few things in response to the latest news and activities.
Education and examination remain online
As previously decided, no education and research activities will be organized at Aeres UAS locations until the summer. Education and examination will take place online/in alternative forms. If this raises any specific questions, please contact your personal coach/mentor.
Summer courses and introduction days will be adjusted
The ban on events will be extended until September 1. This means that summer courses and our annual introduction for new students will be adjusted accordingly. Plans and scenarios are now being mapped out.
We are preparing for the 'one and a half meters society'.
We take into account that measures will be needed in the long run. Therefore we investigate how to conduct our education and research in the so-called ‘one and a half meter society’. Various scenarios are being developed, on the basis of which we will be able to make well-considered choices. Choices that will be determined by the health of our staff and students on the one hand and, on the other, maintaining the quality of our education and research and preventing study delays.
Hold on, stay at home
While we all long for recapturing our normal life, we are not there yet. Therefore we repeat the call from our cabinet: HOLD ON, STAY AT HOME. Only if we succeed in doing so, we will soon be able to meet again.
April 2, 2020
The measures taken to control the spread of the Coronavirus have been extended until April 28, 2020. However, a clear signal has already been given for the period following. As prime minster Rutte puts it: "Don’t rely on going back to ‘business as usual’ after April 28... It may well be we have to continue this way..." It is therefore that the following decision was taken by the Executive Board of Aeres and management of Aeres University of Applied Sciences on April 1, 2020:
Until the summer holidays there will be no teaching or research activities at the locations of Aeres University of Applied Sciences. Teaching and examination will take place online. If national measures become less stringent before the summer holidays, we will look at a way to start carrying out our teaching and research activities on location again, in a responsible manner. We will take further decisions on this at the end of April and the end of May, if the national guidelines give reason to do so.
April 1, 2020
Imposed measures extended until April 28
The Cabinet has announced that the current measures will be extended until April 28, 2020. This means that no educational activities will take place at our locations until the end of the May break. It has also become clear that even in the most positive scenario, a return to the 'normal mode of operation' after April 28 will take time. Consultations are being held today with the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science on what this means for the UAS in the Netherlands. Subsequently, the Aeres crisis team will decide how we will deal with this. More information will follow at the end of this week.
Counsellors
The Corona crisis can seriously affect people's lives. Concerns arise about their own or their families health, or the consequences of the imposed measures with regards to finances, or perhaps social isolation. Know that the counsellors are ready to talk to all of our employees and students, conversations you have with them are confidential. The Counsellors for the faculties of Almere and Dronten can be found on the intranet (see also link under ‘Online studeren’ there you find their names under ‘Vertrouwenspersonen’). In Wageningen you can find them in Canvas, behind the link "Servicedocumenten" in the ‘Infogids’. Problems in finding them? Send an email to info.hogeschool@aeres.nl and indicate which faculty you work or study at, then we’ll provide you with the counsellors name and email address.
March 25, 2020
Currently there are many intense discussion about prolonging the imposed measures on no physical classes in higher education.
To be specific prolonging online education until June 1, 2020. The council of university of applied sciences and the ministry of education will, most likely, provide clarity in the beginning of next week. Aeres Uas will await their decision but is preparing contingency plans in the meantime.
March 24, 2020
All events cancelled until June 1
The cabinet has decided that the ban on meetings and events will be extended until 1 June and that it now also applies to groups of under 100 participants. In the next two weeks it will be determined whether the measures in education will also be extended.
Beware for phising mails!
In recent weeks, various media reported on fake emails from fraudsters posing as the World Health Organization (WHO), the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the RIVM. There are also e-mails on behalf of the "Aeres IT department" asking you to verify your details. The purpose of these emails is to find out your data or to start a ransomware attack.
Be extra alert to emails and websites that try to help you work from home and / or that are related to the corona virus and to recognize its symptoms.
- Do not click on web links in mail messages from unknown addresses, but always type in the URL of the website you want to go to yourself. Or move your mouse over the URL so that it is visible (not click on it!) And view the link. You often see whether the link is real or fake.
- As soon as you are asked to log in somewhere or to fill in data, always first consider whether things are in order.
- Go to Cybersave Yourself and learn how to recognize phishing. There you will find even more useful tips in the field of cyber security.
- Keep all your software up to date: immediately install the updates for your laptop, phone or tablet.
March 20, 2020
The ministry of foreign affairs and the society for University of applied sciences have been preoccupied with the consequences of the imposed measures for both students and all university of applied sciences (hereafter UAS). The following has been decided:
Application deadline moved to June 1
To provide prospect students more time and space to register for study programmes the application deadline has been postponed by 1 month; from May 1 to June 1, 2020.
Binding study advice (BSA) postponed to year 2
Although many UAS’s try to continue educational activities and examination, albeit in alternative forms, problems arise for students and programmes in various forms. Consequently study delays and a negative binding study advice could occur. It was therefore decided to postpone the binding study advice for the current first year students, to their second year. That does not mean exams and assignments can be discarded. The details of this decision cannot be given at this stage but are being mapped out, more information will be provided at a later moment.
Financial support possibilities for student
Some students might get into financial difficulty as a result of the imposed measures from the government, by losing their part-time jobs for example. DUO would like all students to become aware they can extent their monthly loans temporarily. This option is available retroactively until the start of the academic year. Moreover students can also request a tuition fee credit, which can be arranged by themselves in their DUO portal. If this proves insufficient they can contact DUO for other possibilities.
National Student Survey (NSE)
All activities are directed towards continuing of education, and is the main priority for all UAS’s. Therefore it has been decided to not hold the national student survey.
Quality agreements
All university of applied sciences have to hand in a plan in which they map out how the quality of education is safeguarded and improved in the coming years. Based on these quality agreements in which the student council is involved, extra grants are made available. The assessment of these plans will most likely result in delays, it was therefore decided that the ministry of education will allocate all grants for 2021 to be used for the quality of education.
March 18, 2020
Travel
The ministry of foreign affairs has advised to ban all travel abroad for the coming period, unless strictly necessary. This is in line with our former formulated policy. All travel abroad in any form for both students and staff members planned in March are cancelled. This also applies to all travel related for internships abroad. We are bearing in mind that this imposed measure will be prolonged. We therefore advise not to buy tickets for travelling abroad until further notice. We continuously monitor the situation and will inform you when the situation changes.
International internships and student mobility
The ministry of foreign affairs advises students who are currently abroad to come back to The Netherlands. We have contacted all our students abroad and discuss their return home. The consequences of terminating your current study activities abroad will be mapped out as soon as possible and is also discussed in national crisis management teams as all Universities and Universities of applied sciences have to deal with this situation.
Binding study advice
The consequences of the current situation for the binding study advice regulation , for all our first year students, is a topic of discussion on national level between all Universities and Universities of applied sciences and the ministry of Education. As soon as more information is available you will be informed.
March 16, 2020
During a national press conference on March 15 additional measures were put into place to stem the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
The government urges all it’s inhabitants to reduce travelling/commuting and social contacts where possible. The current measures put into place are prolonged to April 6th.
Our crisis team has been preoccupied with the consequences of these measures, the urgent call from our government to reduce travelling and social contacts and what this means to all of us.
What does this mean for our students in Dronten and Almere?
- Until April 7th our educational activities will be organized through a form of distance learning (online, no physical classes). As of April 7th we will resume activities according to normal mode of operation;
- In the week of 7 to 9 April, classes will be scheduled to prepare you for the T3 examination period;
- The T3 examination period starts a week later than originally planned. The exams will start as of Tuesday April 14th. T3 will run until the May break;
- After the May break (May 6th) we will resume with P4, classes of period 4. This period will be shortened by a week (instead of the planned 8 lesson weeks, there will be 7 lessons weeks, like every other period of the year);
- T4 starts consequently thereafter on June 22 as originally planned;
- This means that the summer break is the summer break as originally planned;
Finally all group activities/excursions/company visits have been cancelled until April 6th.
March 15, 2020
Closure of all schools; consequences for students of teacher training courses and master LI
The Dutch government has announced that nationally all schools will close for the period from March 16 to April 6. For Aeres University of Applied Sciences, it was stated on March 13 that until March 31 no educational activities take place at the Aeres locations. Due to the measures taken by The Dutch government, this has been extended until 6 April.
- For students of the teacher training courses and master students of Aeres Hogeschool Wageningen, the closing of schools may mean that they may have to temporarily interrupt workplace learning or work (part-time students). For graduates: please contact your graduation supervisor, institute trainer or study coach if this seems to be the case. We will discuss the options together.
- We advise all other students to see whether they can use distance learning or working from home at their (temporary) workplace.
March 13, 2020 (2)
Our educational activities continue
Aeres UAS crisis team has discussed the consequences of the national measures imposed by our government to stem the spread of the COVID-19 virus. It has been decided that our educational activities continue with the aim of reducing study delays to an absolute minimum albeit the imposed measures.
We herewith sum up the most important decisions and principles:
Education
- No physical educational activities will be offered on all locations until March 31st, with exceptions of individual student meetings.
- All of our energy is directed towards continuing our educational activities. That means that deadlines remain in place, handing in assignments and assessments and exams will take place as planned.
- For mandatory modules or module elements with physical attendance requirements, the involved team will formulate alternatives.
- Our courses will be offered via Canvas.
- Unless informed otherwise internships, projects and company visits/excursions in The Netherlands will continue as planned.
Travel:
- All travelling abroad in any form for both students and staff members that are planned in March are cancelled. This measure also regards travelling for internships abroad.
International internships and student mobility:
- We keep in touch with our students studying or interning abroad and advise them to follow the instructions of the partner university and local or national authorities.
- Students who have planned an internship abroad can continue the process but should take postponement of the starting date (heading towards the summer) into consideration.
- Should students have questions, they are advised to contact their Aeres UAS internship coach.
Events:
- All events planned until April 15 will be postponed or cancelled.
- Student events are cancelled as well.
March 13, 2020 (1)
1. Aeres University of Applied Science: no education at location
In order to prevent further spread of the coronavirus, there will be no educational activities offered at the locations of Aeres UAS in Almere, Dronten and Wageningen until 31-3-2020. Individual exceptions will be discussed personally with the student. The buildings will be open and we are looking into ways how remote education can be implemented. Please keep an eye to the Aeres website for more information.
2. Open days cancelled
Aeres has decided to reduce the number of events to a minimum. Also, following government policy, Aeres cancels all events with over 100 expected visitors until March 31. This means all open days of Aeres UAS in Almere, Dronten and Wageningen will be cancelled until March 31.
3. Travels and excursions abroad are cancelled
All forms of travelling and excursions abroad that take place in March are cancelled. This measure applies to both staff and students.