A number of new measures have been announced as part of the University’s COVID strategy in light of the Prime Minister’s address to the nation yesterday, in an email sent out by Vice-Chancellor Charlie Jeffrey earlier today.
The University has officially confirmed that from 8 March there will be a “return to in-person teaching for students on practical and creative courses.”
Jeffrey outlined that the reason for this “limited return” was due to practical courses requiring “access to specialist equipment and facilities.”
Those not on practical courses are expected to continue online learning until 19 April, the beginning of the summer term, when a review is expected to take place.
Jeffrey stressed that these decisions could be overturned if the Government’s COVID timetable for easing restrictions changed.
The government is planning to review the timetable “every few weeks”.
The University has said that it will extend the rent credits scheme from 11 January to 19 April, alleviating financial pressure from students who are unable to return to campus due to COVID Restrictions.
The credits, announced last month, allowed students to deduct accommodation costs off their final payments in April 2021.
The University has also announced that it is constructing an additional four outdoor venues, similar to the marquee in the Piazza on Hes East, for students to use during the day as a study space, and at night for socialising.
YUSU have announced that they are planning to open their venues back up as part of a phased plan: first opening its outdoor venues, before moving to open indoor venues once “we have ensured that we have the right safety measures and sufficient staffing in place”.
They have also said that they are reviewing plans to restart student activities, including sports activities and volunteering, hinting at the possible return of Roses in 2021.