There are no longer government restrictions on the approach to teaching and learning in universities and colleges as a result of coronavirus.

There is no requirement for social distancing or other measures within in-person teaching. Providers are able to shape their courses without restrictions to face-to-face provision.

Although national restrictions have been lifted, providers are autonomous institutions and should put in place plans for how students are taught and how campuses are used based on their own needs and risk assessments.

See the latest guidance on emergency planning and response for education settingsExternal link (Opens in a new tab or window) from the Department for Education (DfE).

No. Universities and colleges are not required with consult with us before making these decisions.

Governing bodies and leadership teams will need to make good judgements about the actions necessary to protect the interests of students and, in particular, to ensure that students have effective pastoral support. This is consistent with our routine approach to management and governance matters.

Universities and colleges should consider whether these matters should be reported to the OfS as reportable events, under our revised reporting requirements.

The Department for Education’s (DfE’s) emergency planning and response for education settingsExternal link (Opens in a new tab or window) publication provides non-statutory guidance to help education settings respond to emergencies.

Providers may also find the Health and Safety Executive’s public health advice for workplacesExternal link (Opens in a new tab or window) useful.