Lori Meadows
Returning to university after the Christmas break can be a daunting prospect for many students. While some students are keen to embrace the independence of university life again, others may feel anxious about leaving their friends and family. In addition, the transition back to studying can be challenging, especially after a relaxing break. To ease the process, students can pack extra home comforts, stay in touch with loved ones, and gradually get back into a study routine. Furthermore, universities have implemented measures to support students' mental health and well-being, such as prioritising access to accommodation, study spaces, and specialist facilities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, staggered returns and mass testing were introduced to minimise transmission risks and ensure a safe learning environment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Returning to university after Christmas break | Students may feel low, homesick or daunted |
| Students may be keen to get back to the independence that comes with university life | |
| Students might feel better if they pack some extra home comforts like photos or anything that holds a special memory | |
| Students can plan for when they will go home next and get things arranged so they have something to look forward to | |
| Students can try to get back to work, which will take their mind off home | |
| COVID-19 tests | Students are encouraged to test before travelling back to university |
| Students will be offered COVID-19 tests before returning to campuses in the new year | |
| Students will be advised to have two lateral flow tests three days apart on their return to campus, with results available within an hour | |
| Students who test positive will be asked to self-isolate in their university accommodation | |
| Students who spent Christmas in a Tier 3 zone where community testing is on offer are asked to take a test before travelling back to university | |
| Staggered return | Universities have been advised to prioritise students who may need to return to campus earlier because they do not have access to accommodation or study space, or because of mental health reasons |
| Students who require specialist spaces like laboratories will be prioritised | |
| Face-to-face teaching | Face-to-face teaching remains the top priority and is what students want and expect |
| Studies will continue online for many over a five-week period to minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission | |
| A phased return to in-person teaching will be implemented |
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What You'll Learn
Lateral flow testing for students
Students returning to university after the Christmas break will be offered COVID-19 tests, including lateral flow tests, before and after returning to campuses in the new year. The tests are intended to minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission and help students, staff, and communities stay safe.
Lateral flow tests are rapid tests that can provide results within 30 minutes. They are designed to detect COVID-19 infections in individuals without symptoms. While these tests are optional, they are strongly encouraged as they are an important part of the strategy to keep students safe, reduce virus transmission, and protect families. Students who are 12 or older can conduct the test themselves under adult supervision, while those who are 11 years old must be supervised by an adult.
The testing process is straightforward and typically involves a swab of the back of the throat and inside one nostril. Students are expected to be punctual for their tests and observe social distancing while on-site. After completing the test, students should return home and await their results.
If a student's test result is positive, the student and their household must isolate while a confirmation PCR test is booked. If the PCR test is also positive, the isolation period must be followed, typically lasting around 10 days. However, if the PCR test is negative, the student can end their isolation and return to school. In the case of a negative lateral flow test result, it is crucial to continue following government guidance and rules during the national lockdown.
By implementing lateral flow testing, universities can enhance their safety measures and contribute to the national effort to control the spread of COVID-19. It is important to note that negative test results do not guarantee freedom from infection, and adhering to other control measures, such as social distancing, enhanced cleaning, ventilation, and good hygiene practices, remains vital.
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Mental health and wellbeing
Returning to university after the Christmas holidays can be a daunting experience for many students, especially those who struggle with homesickness or mental health issues. It is normal to feel anxious about leaving the comfort of home and returning to the independence of university life. To ease this transition, students can remind themselves of the positive aspects of university, such as having their own space and reuniting with friends. Making plans to go out and catch up with friends can help lift spirits and provide something to look forward to.
For students who have spent the Christmas break in the comfort of their family homes, returning to university can be challenging. Homesickness is a common feeling, and it is important to remember that many other students are in the same boat. To combat homesickness, students can bring extra mementos or photos from home to remind them of happy memories. Inviting friends or family to visit can also help, as it gives students something to look forward to and provides an opportunity to show them around the university and local area.
Maintaining good mental health and well-being is crucial for students returning to university. The transition back to university life can be smoother if students prioritise self-care and practice stress management techniques. This may include engaging in relaxing activities, such as yoga or meditation, or seeking support from university counselling services if needed. Students should also be mindful of the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular exercise.
In addition to personal strategies, universities play a vital role in supporting the mental health and well-being of their students. Many universities offer dedicated student support services, including counselling, mental health workshops, and peer support programmes. These services aim to help students manage stress, anxiety, and any other mental health concerns they may have. It is important for students to familiarise themselves with the support available and not hesitate to reach out for help if needed.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also presented unique challenges to students' mental health and well-being. The restrictions, self-isolation, and disruptions to university life have impacted students' social activities and overall university experience. Universities have recognised these challenges and implemented measures to support students' mental health. This includes providing mass testing to ensure a safe return to campus, prioritising face-to-face teaching, and offering a staggered return to help ease students back into university life.
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Online learning
During the pandemic, many universities adopted a blended approach, offering a mix of online and in-person teaching. However, in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, the bulk of studies shifted online, with social activities curtailed due to restrictions. This situation presented challenges for students, who had to adapt to a predominantly virtual learning environment.
In England, a staggered return to university campuses was planned for students after the Christmas break in the 2020-2021 academic year. Students were advised to take lateral flow tests and self-isolate if positive. Additionally, those who spent the holidays in Tier 3 areas were asked to take a test before travelling back. This staggered approach aimed to minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission and protect students, staff, and communities.
While some students prioritised their mental health and well-being by returning to campus, others continued with online learning. Those requiring specialist spaces, such as laboratories or placements, were given priority for in-person teaching. Universities aimed to provide normal campus facilities, activities, and support services while adhering to COVID-19 restrictions.
As universities navigate the challenges posed by COVID-19, a combination of online learning and in-person teaching has emerged as a flexible solution. While online learning cannot replicate the full campus experience, it has enabled students to continue their studies with minimal disruption. Universities strive to balance academic pursuits with health and safety considerations, adapting their approaches as needed.
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Social activities
Returning to university after the Christmas break can be a shock to the system. Students may be keen to get back to their university life and the independence it brings, but others may feel daunted, especially if they have been enjoying the company of friends and family back home over the festive period.
To ease the transition, students can start by reminding themselves of all the things they enjoy about university life. They can make plans to meet up with friends, perhaps going out for drinks or setting up study groups. It is also beneficial to get back into a routine, which can include creating a study plan to help anticipate exams and deadlines.
Students can also consider giving their study space a makeover to make it feel fresh and new, and they can research new tools, apps, or resources to bring exciting and engaging activities into their learning.
Incorporating social activities can help students manage emotions, set goals, and build positive relationships. Open conversations can be encouraged, where students share personal stories, concerns, or excitement about returning to university. Fun, hands-on projects and interesting activities can stimulate curiosity and excitement about learning. Students can also be given a voice and a choice in their learning journey, allowing them to share their interests and have a say in their academic pursuits.
Additionally, students can be encouraged to reflect on their personal and academic aspirations, setting goals for the term and sharing their feelings about what has gone well and what they want to improve. Social activities can play a vital role in helping students transition back to university life after the Christmas break, fostering a sense of community and engagement.
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Student and staff safety
The return of students to universities after the Christmas break has been a concern for students and staff alike, with many students expressing frustration with their experience in the previous term. To ensure student and staff safety, universities have implemented several measures.
Firstly, a staggered return has been planned for students, with priority given to students who require access to specialist spaces, such as laboratories, or those who do not have access to suitable accommodation or study spaces. This approach aims to minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission during travel and between regions.
Secondly, mass testing is being conducted in universities to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Students are advised to take lateral flow tests before and after arriving on campus. Those who test positive are instructed to self-isolate in their university accommodation. Additionally, students who spent the winter break in high-risk areas are encouraged to take tests before travelling back to university.
Furthermore, universities are prioritising face-to-face teaching, which is preferred by students and essential for those requiring specialist spaces. However, online learning will continue for many students over a five-week period to reduce the risk of transmission.
Finally, universities are encouraging students to get vaccinated and boosted as soon as possible. While vaccination is not mandatory for returning to campus, it is strongly recommended to enhance the safety of the university community.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, students will return to university after Christmas.
Students are being advised to take Covid-19 tests before returning to campus. In some cases, students are being asked to take two lateral flow tests three days apart and self-isolate if they test positive.
It is natural to feel a bit low about returning to university after the Christmas holidays. To combat homesickness, you could pack some extra home comforts like photos or anything that holds a special memory. You could also plan the next trip home so that you have something to look forward to.
Face-to-face teaching is a priority for universities, and it is what students want and expect. However, in some cases, online teaching may continue for a few weeks to minimise the risk of Covid transmission.
Yes, students who require access to specialist spaces like laboratories will be prioritised. Students who do not have access to appropriate facilities at home or need to return for mental health reasons will also be prioritised.
