Loughborough University set to welcome students for new academic year

Loughborough University has confirmed that its campuses will be operational in October and measures are being put in place to make sure students can study and socialise safely.

It's after the University's campus operations moved largely online in March because of the coronavirus pandemic, though a small number of staff continued to support students who were unable to return home. 

Throughout the summer planning and preparations have been underway to prepare for the easing of lockdown and the reopening of the campus. 

This has included work with partners at Charnwood Borough Council, Leicestershire Police and Public Health England.

Safety measures and arrangements for the start of term include:

• Socially distanced arrival arrangements
• A blend of online and in person welcome activities
• The operation of household ‘bubbles’ for new students in halls of residence
• Social distancing measures for venues such as Loughborough Students’ Union and sports facilities
• A mix of online and face-to-face teaching and learning
• Social distancing measures in all buildings on campus
• Use of protective screens, provision of hand sanitiser and enhanced cleaning regime in all buildings and in-house contract tracing system
• Provision of advice for students about the need to follow social distancing and government guidance at all times
• Plans have been drawn up to quickly respond to and deal with any local issues to ensure the safety of students, staff and the community are maintained

Commenting on the work that has taken place over the summer Richard Taylor, Chief Operating Officer said: “As lockdown measures have eased, colleagues across the university have worked tirelessly to create an environment on campus that is welcoming but meets all the national guidance to allow us to operate safely.

"We look forward to welcoming our staff, new and returning students back to Loughborough later this year.”

Councillor Jenny Bokor, Lead Member for Loughborough, Charnwood Borough Council said: “I am pleased to see the steps being taken by the University to make sure students and staff are safe on and off campus.

“We look forward to welcoming students back to Loughborough and taking one more step towards getting back to the ‘new normal.”

Mike Sandys, Director of Public Health for Leicestershire County Council, said: “Enabling students to learn is key and we’ve been supporting the University to get ready for the autumn. I’m pleased that we’ve been able to help the University create a practical learning environment that is Covid-19 secure and I look forward to students returning."

New first year students will arrive in Loughborough between Saturday 26th and Wednesday 30th September, with the new academic year officially beginning on Monday 5th October.