Under the national lockdown restrictions the majority of students across the UK are now expected to remain where they are wherever possible, and start their term online.
It is important to note however that there are some limited exemptions within Government guidance that do allow students to return to their term-time accommodation, including for mental health reasons or to access suitable accommodation or study facilities. There are also some students who have stayed in Bath throughout the winter break, including care leavers and international students, and some had already returned before lockdown began.
At both Bath’s universities the majority of teaching and assessments will now take place online until at least mid-February and we are awaiting further guidance from the Government about what will happen after that.
The universities have made extensive preparations to deliver high quality learning and teaching online. A small number of courses, including those in healthcare related subjects and teacher training, are permitted to continue in-person teaching during lockdown. Any activities on campus will take place in line with Government rules and strictly following Covid secure measures, including the wearing of face-coverings, hand hygiene and social distancing.
Both universities have been supporting students remaining in Bath over the winter break. In addition, both universities are continuing to take part in the asymptomatic lateral-flow testing programme that delivers rapid results to students and staff. You can find updates on this for the University of Bath and for Bath Spa University online.