What Does the New Covid-19 Roadmap Mean for University Students?

University students say they have been left in limbo by the government’s newly-released covid recovery roadmap.

The new rules state that, “in-person teaching can resume on 8 March for students studying practical courses.”

And “courses that require specialist equipment and facilities (including creative-arts).”

This means that students should not return to University if the course can be continued online for the remainder of the term.

UCLAN student Elliott Whalley, studying aerospace engineering, said that he was really confused by the vagueness of the guidelines as his course requires specialist equipment but could continue to be taught online.

He also said: “the university haven’t been in contact with us yet and it’s been three days.

“I don’t know if I should start planning to move back or not.”

A large number of other students have been questioning the new rules as well.

Sophie McKay, a Salford student, said: “There’s been a huge lack in communication from the universities since the start of the year.

“Nowadays should be the easiest time to communicate with each other, with the internet, but it’s still a struggle.”

There is a silver lining to this cloud of confusion for these young adults, however.

21 June could be the date that pubs and clubs fully open and any restrictions are more or less lifted.

There are still some concerns by students on whether or not they’ll get their summer of freedom but, for now, they’ve got to enjoy it while it lasts.

And as for the guidelines for their studies, they’ll have to wait for more detail from the government or some clarity from their university.

To find out more you can visit HE guidance spring term 2021 (publishing.service.gov.uk)