Message to students about the winter break from Professor Anthony Smith

Dear Students,

Every year, many of you remain in London for the winter break and continue to come to campus to study. In addition, some of you will be travelling to London during the winter break, after studying remotely for Term One.

We have now published information about the support and facilities available to you throughout the UCL closure period, from 5.30pm on Friday 18 December 2020 to 9am on Monday 4 January 2021.

Students’ Union UCL are running events and activities, some study spaces will be open, and health and wellbeing support will be offered throughout the wider closure. Find out more.

Last week the Government released new guidance about a staged return of students to campus after the winter break. The guidance seeks to avoid the risk of Covid-19 outbreaks from the mass movement of students within a short period of time. Faculties and departments will share their education plans for the start of Term Two with you early next week (14 December). In the meantime, please note that while we are supporting the staggered return of students, no student will be prevented from returning if you already have existing travel plans. To ensure that you are protecting yourself and your peers, we encourage you, before you travel, to book a test at UCL’s Asymptomatic COVID-19 Testing Facility, which will be in operation from 4 January.

Best wishes,

Professor Anthony Smith
Vice-Provost (Education and Student Affairs)