GRADUATION ceremonies at the University of Bolton are to be postponed and face-to-face lecturers suspended.

The university will break-up for an extended Easter holiday today and video-conferencing facilities will be used to teach students when they return.

The new measures have been implemented following Government guidelines which has led to some members of staff self-isolating.

Professor George Holmes, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bolton said: "I must stress that the University of Bolton is NOT closing.

"Even though the Government’s scientific advice says we cannot meet together in the same way during the ‘social distancing’ phase of the coronavirus epidemic, we will continue to provide our degrees and ensure students can graduate safely.

"The advice from the Chief Medical Officer, that individuals with any symptoms whatsoever should self-isolate, is beginning to impact on our operational efficiency as a university.

"As fewer students attend campus and staffing levels become significantly affected by individuals taking proper precautions, in the light of the Secretary of State’s latest decisions, I have reviewed the operations of the university going forward."

From the end of today, students are being advised to stay-off campus, the library can be used to pick up and drop-off books.

Work placement for nursing students and apprentices will continue, with teaching arrangements made.

All classes after the extended break will be mediated and facilitated using video conferencing technology and will not take place on campus, with almost all staff working remotely.

Prof Holmes added: "Clearly this is not a perfect solution but it does provide the opportunity to continue, in some form, our degree programmes.

"Graduation in July will not go ahead. However, students will receive their degrees in a timely manner to ensure that they are able to proceed to employment. Staff will implement new assessment methods to avoid exams taking place in the traditional way, but appropriate knowledge will be tested.

"All students graduating will, of course, have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony once things have returned to normal. Nobody will miss out on their opportunity to attend these great occasions with their family."