Lori Meadows
The return to university life after the pandemic has been challenging for students, with many having to adapt to online learning and new campus safety measures. In 2021, universities in the UK advised a staggered return to campuses, with some students receiving online provision throughout the term. Students returning to campus were asked to take COVID-19 tests, and self-isolate if positive, to reduce the risk of transmission. The transition to university life can be difficult for students, and the pandemic has further impacted students' mental health. To address this, the UK government has provided additional funding for student mental health support. For mature students returning to university, the experience can be daunting, with concerns about fitting in with younger students and managing the financial burden of returning to education. Despite these challenges, many students value the opportunities that university provides, such as exposure to diverse people and cultures, as well as the chance to join societies and sports clubs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Return to university | Students on practical courses have returned to in-person teaching. |
| All students were able to return to in-person teaching from 17 May. | |
| Lectures and sessions | Most lectures are delivered online with small in-person sessions. |
| Testing | Students have ongoing access to home testing kits as part of onsite “university collect” distribution. |
| Testing | Students also have access to free tests twice a week. |
| Testing | Students who test positive must self-isolate for 10 days unless they receive a negative PCR test within two days. |
| Funding | The government has made an additional £85 million in funding available for student hardship. |
| Funding | This is on top of the £256 million of government-funded student premium funding available to universities. |
| Funding | £15 million has been allocated towards student mental health. |
| Funding | £3 million has been provided to fund Student Space. |
| Accommodation | Students were advised not to return home for the Easter break and to stay at their term-time accommodation. |
| Accommodation | Exemptions were in place for those who needed to return home for mental health and wellbeing reasons. |
| Accommodation | Students were advised to test before and after travelling back to university. |
| Accommodation | A staggered return to campuses was advised for students studying remotely. |
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What You'll Learn
Returning to university as a mature student
Mature students are defined as those over the age of 25, and they often juggle additional responsibilities, such as jobs or families, which require careful time management and organisation. It can be challenging to adapt to a new learning environment, but support is available to help with the transition. Mature students may worry that they are not as prepared as school leavers, but their life experience and skills can give them an advantage.
To successfully navigate the university experience as a mature student, it is essential to take advantage of the resources and support services available on campus. These can include time management resources, counselling services, and orientation activities specifically for mature students. It is also beneficial to familiarise yourself with the assessment schedule before the course starts and plan your weekly and trimester schedules to balance your study, personal, and work commitments effectively.
While there may be an age gap with younger classmates, don't let that deter you from forging meaningful relationships. Engage in extracurricular activities, join clubs, and attend networking events to connect with like-minded individuals. University life will likely be different from your previous experience, with most lectures delivered online and small in-person sessions adding value.
The transition to university can be challenging for all students, and the demand for mental health services is increasing. Funding has been allocated to support student mental health, targeting vulnerable groups and hard-to-reach students. Returning to university as a mature student can be a rewarding experience, offering a newfound joy for education and the importance of learning.
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The transition back to in-person teaching
In 2021, the UK government advised a cautious approach to the return to in-person teaching, with creative and practical students starting to return from March 8, 2021. This return was staggered to reduce the risk of transmission across the country, with universities given the autonomy to decide based on their specific circumstances. Students on courses where in-person learning was crucial were prioritised to ensure they could complete their qualifications as planned.
To support the transition, the government made additional funding available for universities, including £85 million for student hardship and £256 million in student premium funding. Of this £256 million, £15 million was specifically allocated to student mental health services to address the challenges associated with the transition back to university and the demand for mental health support. This funding aimed to target vulnerable groups and hard-to-reach students.
Universities also implemented COVID-19 testing measures, with supervised tests and ongoing access to home testing kits provided to students and staff. Those who tested positive were required to self-isolate for 10 days unless they received a negative PCR test within two days. Asymptomatic testing arrangements were also put in place for students returning to campus and those who remained on campus during the transition period.
While the transition back to in-person teaching has been a careful and gradual process, university life is still different from pre-pandemic times. A blend of online lectures and small in-person sessions is often utilised, with universities supporting students and staff through the transition to this new way of learning and teaching.
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Student mental health and wellbeing
Returning to university after a long break can be challenging for students, and their mental health and well-being are important considerations. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing stressors while introducing new challenges, and universities have had to adapt quickly to support their students' mental health.
The transition to university life can be a vulnerable time for students' mental health, and the pandemic has only heightened these concerns. Students have faced academic, financial, and social pressures, as well as lifestyle changes and the absence of their usual support networks. These factors can lead to negative outcomes such as low academic performance, course dropout, and, in severe cases, self-harm and suicide. The pandemic has also disrupted traditional teaching methods, with many universities adopting online learning. While this has increased access to education, it has also created a unique set of challenges for students, particularly those with pre-existing mental health issues.
Digital mental health interventions have played a crucial role in supporting students during the pandemic. Online platforms and digital solutions have helped bridge the gap in mental health support, especially when in-person services were limited. However, research on the effectiveness of these digital interventions is still ongoing, and they are most beneficial when used to supplement existing resources rather than replace them. The sudden shift to online learning has also meant that university staff, who are not primarily mental health experts, have had to provide emotional support to students, which has taken a toll on their own well-being.
As universities return to in-person teaching, it is essential to prioritize students' mental health and well-being. This includes recognizing the varying needs of students and providing adequate resources and support. Initiatives such as the Student Space platform aim to fill the gaps in mental health support for students, and governments have allocated funding to address these challenges. Additionally, universities can promote mental wellness and resilience through webinars, training, and cross-state networking to share best practices.
Overall, the return to university life presents an opportunity to foster a supportive environment for students' mental health and well-being. By addressing the unique challenges brought about by the pandemic and providing a range of support options, universities can help students successfully navigate this transition and promote positive mental health outcomes.
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The cost of living and student finances
The cost of living crisis has had a significant impact on students, with many facing financial difficulties and challenges. During the 2022-2023 academic year, prices rose faster than increases in student loans, leaving students with less money for living expenses. This has resulted in students struggling to pay for basic necessities, such as food and bills.
In response to the crisis, the government has provided additional support. For instance, the value of loans available to cover living costs rose by 2.3% during the 2022-2023 academic year. Additionally, the government's energy support scheme provided every household in England, Wales, and Scotland with £400 to help with energy costs. However, 40% of students living in private rental accommodation did not receive this payment.
Despite these efforts, students have still faced financial pressures. Many have turned to their parents or other family members for financial support, with 45% receiving support from parents and 10% from other family members. Students from lower socio-economic backgrounds are less likely to receive this type of support, with only 38% of working-class students receiving support from their parents.
To make ends meet, some students have taken on jobs or increased their working hours. Others have relied on savings or gone into debt, using overdrafts or credit cards to pay for essential expenses. Some students have even considered pausing their studies due to financial constraints, although most are determined to continue.
The financial burden on students has led to calls for the government to review the funding available for day-to-day living costs. While the government recently announced a 2.8% increase in maintenance loans, it is argued that this does not match the level of financial challenge students are facing due to the high inflation rate.
Students are having to make difficult choices and sacrifices to manage their finances, and more support is needed to help them through these challenging times.
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The benefits of the university experience
The return to university for students has been a gradual process, with students on practical courses being the first to resume in-person teaching. The university experience has evolved, with a blend of online lectures and small in-person sessions. This transition has been supported by various measures, including mental health initiatives and COVID-19 testing kits.
The university experience offers numerous benefits that can positively impact a student's life. Here are some advantages that highlight the value of the university experience:
Academic Exploration and Career Opportunities
University provides students with the freedom to explore diverse academic interests and passions. They can learn from experts in various fields, attend different lectures, and tailor their academic and career paths. Higher education also opens doors to numerous career opportunities. It acts as a springboard, helping individuals gain the skills, confidence, and independence necessary for adult life and the modern workforce.
Personal Development and Independence
University life fosters independence as students learn to manage their time, learning, and finances. They navigate their daily routines without the same level of parental guidance, allowing them to discover their interests and shape their identities. This self-discovery can be transformative, as some students shared, mentioning how university changed their life direction and granted them a newfound joy for learning.
Social Connections and Extracurricular Activities
University campuses offer a plethora of extracurricular activities, providing students with opportunities to pursue existing interests, try new things, and meet people from diverse backgrounds. This social aspect of university life can lead to lifelong friendships and valuable connections.
Global Perspectives and Cultural Immersion
Through international exchange programs, internships, and volunteer opportunities, students can gain cultural immersion and broaden their perspectives. These experiences not only satisfy wanderlust but also enhance their professional portfolios, making them more competitive in a global job market.
Support Services and Student Wellbeing
Universities often provide extensive support services for students, including academic counselling and mental health resources. These services aim to assist students in navigating academic challenges, adapting to university life, and maintaining their overall wellbeing.
The university experience offers a unique blend of academic exploration, personal growth, social connections, and career preparation. It empowers students to discover their passions, develop valuable skills, and build a foundation for their future endeavours.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, as of May 2021, all university students in the UK have been allowed to return to campus and in-person teaching. However, students should expect most lectures to be delivered online with small in-person sessions where they add value.
Students are advised to take tests before travelling back to campus. Once on campus, students have ongoing access to home testing kits as part of onsite “university collect” distribution in communal campus areas. All tests are free, and students who test positive are required to self-isolate for 10 days unless they receive a negative PCR test within two days.
The UK government has provided universities with up to £256 million in funding for student mental health support in the 2020/21 academic year. An additional £15 million has been allocated to address challenges associated with the transition from school/college to university, targeting vulnerable groups and hard-to-reach students.
The academic calendar varies across universities, but generally, November is when students receive their admissions test results. December is a quiet month to focus on UCAS applications and main components. May is a stressful month with A-Level and GCSE exams.
Returning to university later in life can provide a newfound joy for education and the importance of learning. It offers the opportunity to gain new experiences, meet people from diverse backgrounds, and access a wide range of extracurricular activities at a low cost.
