From Professor Richard Reece | Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education and Student Experience

I am sure many of you are looking forward to 29 March, as I am, when the next stage of the Government’s roadmap should see further Coronavirus restrictions lifted. From this date, socialising outdoors in groups of 6 or between two households will be permitted.

After an incredibly challenging year, it feels great to look ahead to summer and the chance to spend quality time with our friends and loved ones.

Summer examinations

As I have previously highlighted to you, all this year’s examinations will be held online. Our guidance for your Summer Term online examinations is now available. Your examination papers will be released via Moodle in accordance with the examinations timetable which will be published on 29 March 2021.

Travelling home during the Easter vacation

For those of you already in your term-time accommodation, Government guidance states that although you may travel back to your permanent home during the Easter vacation, it is preferable to remain at your term-time address if you can. This will help to reduce the spread of the virus. If you do intend to travel, please ensure you get tested before you leave, plan your journey in case of delays and get tested at a local community testing facility if possible before you return to campus. Remember that if you test positive for Covid-19, you must self-isolate and are not permitted to travel.

If you plan to travel from abroad, please see our international information page for more on the travel and testing arrangements that must be followed if you are returning to the UK from abroad.

Regular Covid-19 testing

Thank you to all of you who are regularly using the on-site Covid-19 testing facilities. It is incredibly important for any staff or students on campus to be tested twice a week. We will only be able to return to the life at Kent we all miss if our Covid cases on campus remain low, so please play your part, help keep your friends safe and look after our campus community.

Medway rent discount

If you are based at Pier Quays, please see this information published by Unite regarding the extension of their rent discount scheme for students not able to access their accommodation because of the Covid restrictions.

Best wishes,

Richard

Professor Richard Reece | Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education and Student Experience