Ulster University to begin letting staff return from ‘early summer’

The university, split over campuses in Coleraine, Londonderry, Jordanstown and Belfast, said the first term of academic year 2020/21 will commence on September 21, and “preparations are under way to deliver lectures and other teaching online for semester one”. 

However, it is not clear how much, if any, face-to-face learning there will be.

The university said: “Some on-campus activities will still take place, based on robust local risk assessments with priority given to using campus spaces for practice-based learning activities [like lab work].

“There will be a safe, phased return to campus for some staff from early summer, but staff who can work from home will continue to do so until at least the end of August.

Interim Vice-Chancellor Prof Paul Bartholomew said: “Throughout the various stages of Covid-19, the physical and mental health, safety and wellbeing of our students, staff, their families and the wider community has been central to our planning.

“The next academic year will be different, and whilst initially we may not all be together on campus as we once were, I’m confident together we will deliver a safe, vibrant, inspiring and productive time for our new and returning students and staff.”

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