Universities should switch to full online learning only as a last resort in the event of a local coronavirus outbreak, new guidance says.

The hundreds of thousands of students due to arrive at England’s universities in the coming weeks also face a ban on house parties under the “rule of six”.

Students must limit socialising, staying within separate “households”, and be taught in managed groups.

The mass return of students raises the risk of outbreaks, the guidance says.

The academics’ union said it would be safer to switch most teaching online this term and allow students to return only when virus levels were lower.

Manchester students warned off club nights
‘I paid for my student house, now lectures are online’
‘Critical moment’ as students return to university

UCU general secretary Jo Grady added: “Any country with a infection rate anywhere near that of our young people would be removed from the safe travel list.

“We cannot see why the government is insisting young people move around the country and engage in unnecessary face-to-face interactions.

“Moving learning online would remove the need for universities to consider teaching outside or opening doors and windows in the winter months as the guidance suggests.”

But the Department for Education guidance reiterates the current position that courses will be provided using a blend of face-to-face and online learning, unless an outbreak occurs locally.

Where social distancing cannot be maintained, teaching sessions will be via technology or moved to more spacious premises.
Mental health

The DfE also stressed there was no evidence face-to-face teaching was unsafe, as long as Covid precautions were maintained.

And it highlighted government Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) advice online-only teaching “would have an impact on students’ mental health.”

“Universities have been making a mammoth effort to safely reopen campuses and buildings to students this autumn,” Universities Minister Michelle Donelan said.

“And the government has worked closely with them.”

Campuses have been closed since March and Sage suggests the university return “could amplify local and national transmission”.