Universities welcome UK government roadmap announcement

Universities UK has welcomed the UK government’s roadmap for easing lockdown restrictions in England, which confirms that all students on practical and practise-based courses who require access to specialist equipment or facilities can return to universities from 8 March 2021.

Professor Julia Buckingham, President, Universities UK said:

“This announcement is a long-awaited boost for students in England on practical and practice-based subjects, whose access to specialist facilities – laboratories, studios, workshops and performance spaces – is essential. Universities look forward to welcoming these students back to Covid-secure campuses from 8 March, where safety measures including serial asymptomatic testing and social distancing will be in place to ensure the risk of transmission remains low.

“While today’s news is positive for some students, it will be disappointing for others that had hoped the government would have allowed them to return. University staff will continue working hard to keep all students motivated, supported, and progressing towards their qualifications. There will also need to be a further focus on supporting students’ mental health and wellbeing in the weeks ahead.”