Covid-19 and our Safe Working Protocols

As we prepare to emerge from lockdown, once permitted, we have some guiding principles to once again offer safe photo training in the great outdoors. 

• Adhere to government guidelines and advice
• Practice safe working for all

Coronavirus has, and probably will, change the way we work for the foreseeable future. But, as people, we still need to be fulfilled by learning new skills, having new experiences, social interactions and, of increasing importance, being immersed in the natural world. Some of the things we used to do during photo school training will no longer be advisable as we rebuild our programme. For the safety of everyone, you, me and anyone we encounter we have devised a strong working protocol ready to emerge from the crisis. This is a protocol that we had devised and used successfully prior to the lockdown for those courses than ran immediately prior to the stay at home order.

We are getting ready to welcome you back into the Photo School. Here are the details of our protocols which we hope will give you the confidence to get back out into nature and improve your photography:

For the time being we will only be offering One to One training in the great outdoors. You may still bring a friend in line with government guidelines at the time (from the same household at the time of going to press). Our select locations are isolated in normal times and it unlikely that we will encounter many other members of the public. 

When attending a course, you will not be displaying any symptoms of Covid-19. If you are, we will reschedule free of charge or give you a refund. You can be confident that your instructor is not displaying any symptoms of Covid-19 or the course will be cancelled and refunded. If you believe that you have had Covid-19 and recovered please let us know the details of your illness date and duration.

You may wear whatever PPE you think appropriate for you during the course. Hand gels and bleach wipes will be available throughout. You’ll be asked to use hand gel prior to starting the course as well as at the end (recommended).

You will be asked to arrive at our meeting point in your own transport.

The meeting point will be in England. Restrictions in Wales are, at the time of going to press, different to those in England. We are following the advice for England as per the gov.uk website.

Our hotel pick-up service has been suspended for the time being and you will not be asked to car share with the instructor.

Two metre social distancing advice will be adhered to. It’s not that far apart really and easily close enough for safe learning.

No equipment sharing or handling is possible between you and the instructor to negate any contact contamination. Clear instructions and help are provided so that you can make any necessary changes to your equipment. It may take a little longer but it is valuable learning in that having done it yourself, you less likely to forget it.

You’ll be required to relax, improve your mental wellbeing, breath in some fresh air, ask lots of questions and have some fun.

Free online support and backup is available post course.

If you have any worries or questions, please just ask.

David