Dear all,
We are keen to support our students who are based overseas to travel to see family and friends and understand how important this feels, given the ongoing effects national restrictions are having on the way we all live our daily lives. (Further information for students travelling home to destinations in the UK over the festive break will follow next week).
The Department for Education has confirmed that international students currently in the UK can return home under the current national restrictions (due to end 2 Dec) and subject to any restrictions in place at their destination. Being outside of one’s home for the purposes of outbound travel to one’s country of nationality/residence can be considered essential under these guidelines.
Unfortunately, current travel restrictions in other countries and quarantine requirements on return to the UK may make travel overseas difficult in some circumstances, given the need to ensure that you are present for essential on-site teaching and/or assessment before the end of term.
Planning travel and your studies
For students on clinical courses, many of you will be on placement before or after the Christmas break and it is important that travel plans do not interrupt these.
Students should also plan their travel so that they are available to attend all on-site teaching and assessment before the end of term and in the new year and can undertake online study as necessary.
This may mean you need to return to the UK early to complete any required period of quarantine before you can return to site.
Students should also be aware you may need to accommodate changes to travel advice at short notice due to changes in government advice.
Students who are having difficulty arranging travel within these parameters should approach their course team to discuss whether there is any leeway in attendance requirements, though please bear in mind this is unlikely unless there are specific circumstances which mean this is necessary.
If you need further advice or support
Before travelling you should also check the latest Government restrictions on travel and quarantine on your return to the UK.
If you have any concerns about your studies and travelling home, further advice can be obtained from your course team. Advice for international students is also on our website.
If you would like to talk confidentially to someone for support, the counselling service can be contacted via emailor on 020 8725 3625. The Counselling Service will continue to run sessions remotely. Please see the website for further details on the range of student support available.
Best wishes,
Jenny Laws
Academic Registrar