Russell Group response to return of students to in-person teaching in England

10 May 2021

After the Government confirmed that all remaining university students in England can return to in-person teaching from 17 May, Dr Tim Bradshaw, Chief Executive of the Russell Group, said:

"We look forward to welcoming the remainder of students in England back onto campus over the coming weeks. Our universities have worked hard to make their campuses Covid-secure, and students can expect a mix of online and in-person teaching, assessment and support for the rest of this academic year. Libraries and others study spaces have remained open throughout and we hope more students will now take the opportunity to use these.

"Students should check with their university about arrangements for their specific courses and also to find out more about the additional non-academic activities being planned for the rest of the year. Our members want to support graduates for the world of work and help all students to benefit from those wider networks that are vital for future success.

"It is important to reiterate the clear message from the Government today that regular Covid testing needs to be part and parcel of this next stage of unlocking if we are to help contain future Covid outbreaks. We would therefore encourage all students to test before travelling, test again using the university facilities once you are back on campus, and then take up the offer of free twice-weekly testing with home kits after that. Facilities to collect boxes of free lateral flow test kits will be available at all of our universities."

Notes

• The updated Government guidance for students returning to higher education in England can be found here. Different arrangements will be in place outside of England.