The UK government has today published new guidance for higher
education institutions concerning the lockdown in England, which
confirms that face-to-face teaching can continue where possible,
and clarifies that libraries and shared-study spaces will remain
open for students to access.
Commenting on the guidance, Professor Julia Buckingham, President
of Universities UK said:
“This guidance provides much-needed clarity for university staff
and students on the new lockdown restrictions in England.
“Students and young people suffered enormously from reduced
social contact and disruption during the first national lockdown,
so it is even more important that they can get on with their
education during the period of enhanced restrictions starting
this week. We welcome both the government’s confirmation that it
does not want or expect a transition to full online learning, as
well as their support for the blended approach being taken by the
sector. Universities will continue offering some face-to-face
learning and support where it is possible to do so in a safe
physically distanced way, which we believe is important for the
mental, emotional and educational wellbeing of students.
“We also welcome confirmation that Covid-secure libraries and
study spaces can remain open, and that students can continue to
socialise and exercise with members of their own household.
“We understand this is a tough time for students, but we urge
them to follow the government’s guidance and remain where they
are for the duration of the new national restrictions. All
universities will continue working hard to take care of both
their physical and emotional wellbeing, by providing access to
testing and health care, mental health support, food deliveries,
laundry, and financial support.
“We await further guidance from the government on the possible
roll-out of mass testing and plans for students to return home at
Christmas.”
