Update on returning to campus
We are delighted that the latest Government announcement on the easing of Covid restrictions from Monday 17th May has confirmed that we will be able to welcome back all remaining students to campus from that date.
The announcement also lifted other restrictions meaning that groups of up to 30 can meet outdoors and indoor hospitality can reopen for two households or six people to meet. More information can be found on the Government website here. The Universities Minister, Michelle Donelan MP, has also written an open letter to all students, which you can read here.
On campus activities
On campus, the ‘Spring into Summer @UoB’ season continues until the end of semester in University Square and across campus. You can sample street food, try a new sport, play a giant board game, or join activities such as crafts, yoga and bread baking. Wherever you are you can join one of our daily Careers Network events, with top tips and master classes from career choices to job applications. Find out more, including booking information (where applicable) on the Spring into Summer @UoB intranet pages.
We’re also excited to reveal that from 17 May there will be a free open air cinema in the amphitheatre area of the Green Heart so pick up some popcorn and meet with friends while watching a classic movie.
Assessment support
The first of our two Assessment Support Weeks for this semester is already underway (w/b 10 May) and the second begins on Monday 17 May. More information and resources can be found on the dedicated Assessment Support Hub Canvas page and from your School.
You can also book into workshops on general topics from the Academic Skills Centre including: improving your academic writing, critical thinking, and top tips for sitting an online exam.
Our study spaces are open across campus and, in response to your feedback, we have created additional study space in the marquee situated in the Green Heart. Open 10.00am - 4.00pm from Monday to Friday with individual desks, heating and Wi-Fi. Power points are limited, so please remember to charge devices in advance.
Sport & Fitness
The changes to Covid restrictions also means we can offer more sport on campus. Find the latest information by visiting the Sport & Fitness website.
Get tested
Everyone on campus is expected to take regular Covid asymptomatic tests (two per week) to help stop the spread. It is estimated that one in three people may still be asymptomatic and could unintentionally spread Covid, so we all have a part to play in keeping our university community as safe as possible. If you are returning to campus for the first time after 17 May, we recommend that you should get tested where you are living currently before you return and then as soon as you return to campus.
You can get tested by booking a slot in the Great Hall on a Monday or Thursday. The process is simple and only takes a few minutes with results usually returned within the hour. Testing is also available on the Vale Village at the Duck & Scholar on Tuesday and Friday, this week only. You can drop-in, no booking required, between 11.00am - 6.45pm (closed 2.00 - 2.45pm). From next week, as a result of your feedback through our poll on social media, we will be introducing collection points for home testing kits. The kits contain seven tests (enough for almost a month) to be done at home at your convenience, with results shown within 30 minutes. We will let you know as soon as the kits are available and where to collect them from.
Please remember that if you do have any symptoms you should book a symptomatic PCR test and not attend campus. If you test positive, through any test, please let us know immediately so we can provide support for your self-isolation.
Online support
We are aware that for some students, particularly many of our international students, you may not be able to travel back at this stage. Provision has been made for this and access to services will continue to be available online including study support, virtual events and student support. There are a small number of courses that require attendance in person and if this applies to you, your School or Department will be in touch to confirm.
Accommodation
If you are living in University-operated or nominated accommodation we will be in contact with you directly about what this latest easing of restrictions means for you.
For all students who are able to return from the 17 May, we look forward to seeing you on campus.