UK: University students can return to in-person teaching in May

After almost a year’s worth of disruption, there is still much to be done to ensure students receive adequate support to succeed in the time that is left of this academic year.

Hillary Gyebi-Ababio, VP Higher Education

The government has been loosening the restrictions from the 12 of April starting with hospitality, retail and personal care sectors was widely awaited but the announcement of the return of the university students has been delayed and caused concern to the universities and students too.

Finally, the news confirmed on 13 April that all university students who have not yet returned to campus and in-person teaching will be able to do so from 17 May, at the earliest. The date is aligned with Step 3 of the Government’s roadmap when restrictions on social contact and indoor mixing will be further eased and aim to limit potential public health risks associated with student populations moving to arrive in universities from different parts of the country.

An estimated 49% of students have been able to attend in-person teaching since March depending on their course and university but the remaining students have received online provision throughout the term.

Julia Buckingham, President of Universities UK commented on the decision:

“This is hugely disappointing news for all those students in England who have been learning online since December and comes at a crucial time in the academic year when in-person support from tutors and friends is highly valued by students ahead of their end-of-year exams.

Furthermore, the UUK and the institutions concerned require communication from the government on rules and directions that need to be taken in order to advise the students about the return and prepare and maximise the opportunities for in-person learning and activities to make the most of the remaining time of the summer term.

As the term dates vary, the individual students should wait to hear more from their university. Meanwhile, universities continue to make significant investments in student and staff safety including updated risk assessments, Covid-secure measures such as blended learning, controlled use of the facilities such as libraries, enhanced testing, and hygiene measures with cleaning and sanitation stations.

In NUS statement, Hillary Gyebi-Ababio, VP Higher Education said: “While incredibly late in the day today’s announcement will at least allow students to make necessary arrangements to access their learning and accommodation. However, after almost a year’s worth of disruption, there is still much to be done to ensure students receive adequate support to succeed in the time that is left of this academic year.”

Students have missed on practical elements of their course and many have struggled financially as a result of paying for accommodation that they did not use, for many leading to mental health issues. Some students feel that the return date is late as their course will have finished by then and they can return to campus but they have no lessons. At the same time, universities are doing their best to prepare for their safe return.