Update (15 December 2021): Click here for the latest guidance.
Following on from our communication last week around both the UK government’s Plan B announcement and its advice to the Higher Education sector, we recognise that you may have a number of queries about the potential impact of the COVID-19 variant, Omicron as we approach the end of Semester 1 this week.
Completing teaching this week
We will continue with teaching this week as planned and in line with the latest government guidance. The majority of in-person teaching will continue, but there may be some temporary online teaching where local teams feel that this is in your best interests and is feasible for your particular programme, to provide you with added flexibility ahead of the Christmas break.
Campus remains open
In line with UK government advice, our libraries, learning spaces, catering, sports, and student support facilities will all remain open.
Semester 2
Currently, plans for Semester 2 remain unchanged as announced last week, focused on in-person teaching on campus. The UK government has been clear in its advice.
Staying safe
We know you’ve heard this already, but we can never say it enough – the best way to stay safe is to get vaccinated and take up your booster jab. This is now open to everyone over 18 years old.
It is essential that we all do everything we can to reduce the risk of spreading infection. So, whether you are studying on campus or at home, our advice continues to be:
- Get vaccinated – We encourage all staff and students to get vaccinated as soon as they can, and to get your booster when eligible. Vaccinated people are much more unlikely to get serious COVID-19 or be admitted to hospital, and there is growing evidence that vaccinated people are less likely to pass the virus to others.
- Get tested – Take a lateral flow test twice a week, isolate immediately if you test positive. You should not come on to the campus if you have any symptoms of COVID-19. Please follow NHS isolation guidance and arrange for a PCR test. If you test positive, you MUST self-isolate and let us know through your line manager and our website.
- Wear a mask – Face coverings are mandatory on campus and are a legal requirement in some public spaces including public transport and shops. Please continue to wear your face coverings if you are able to do so. Keep using the hand sanitiser provided and wash your hands frequently.
- Try to limit your social interactions, especially in large groups – not only do you not want to be ill for Christmas, but self-isolation rules could ruin any travel plans.