Bader College has recently learned about a number of structural issues at Herstmonceux Castle requiring immediate attention, including repairs required to the roof. Late last week, a structural engineer visited the campus and confirmed that the situation is more serious than previously understood.
As a result, portions of the Castle were closed to ensure the health and safety of students and staff. On Monday, November 13, out of an abundance of caution, Queen’s University made the decision to cease operations in the Castle with immediate effect. All academic programming is moving online until the end of the Fall term. The university is making arrangements for current Bader students to continue their studies in January at the Kingston, Canada campus. Queen’s Student Affairs and Bader College staff are working together to ensure a smooth transition for the students.
Queen’s University has also decided temporarily to suspend recruitment of students for the 2024-25 academic year.
Queen’s is continuing to assess the situation and full extent of the work needed but it is clear as of now that there is at least one year to 18 months of structural repairs to undertake. In addition, the structural engineer has recommended a complete survey of other areas of the Castle, which will be undertaken in late January/early February.
We want to reassure our community that students are receiving close support at this time to help with their transition to the university’s Canadian campus.
