, Labour’s Shadow Minister
for Further Education and Universities,
responding to Universities UK guidance for universities emerging
from lockdown, said:
"The coming academic year will be a very different
experience for students and staff alike and producing a clear set
of principles on which to proceed, with a focus on the wellbeing
of staff and students, is exactly what is needed.
"At a time when leadership is called for it is a matter of
regret that the Government has so far remained on the sidelines,
introducing heavy handed powers to the Office for Students and
allowed uncalled-for caps on English student numbers on the
devolved regions.
"Labour urges the Government to take this opportunity to
work with UUK to ensure all universities are adequately supported
through this crisis."
Ends
Notes to Editors:
· Universities
UK has released a report today (Wednesday) on the principles and
considerations for universities emerging from
lockdown www.universitiesuk.ac.uk
· This
framework guide which out high-level principles and supporting
information for universities to consider as they emerge from the
pandemic lockdown. The nine principles include prioritising the
health, safety and wellbeing of students, staff and those in the
wider community; making appropriate changes to layout to adhere
to regulations such as social distancing; reviewing flexibility
in teaching, learning and assessments; and developing effective
processes to welcome international students and staff, including
throughout any mandatory self-isolation period.
