Learning and teaching

2021-22 academic year

Our expectation and current plan is to deliver face-to-face teaching in 2021-22.

We also have proven expertise in utilising digital technologies to enhance our face-to-face learning and teaching delivery. We will of course have contingency plans in place to adapt our learning and teaching delivery in response to new Covid-19 safety measures should this be needed.

We will also provide further updates on teaching and what students can expect for the academic year 2021-22 as soon as we are able to confirm this. Our approach will continue to follow government advice and guidance, while aiming to provide the best possible on-campus student experience and excellent standards of teaching.

International travel restrictions or visa delays

If you are unable to travel to Sheffield for the start of the 2021-22 academic year for reasons related to international travel restrictions or visa delays, you will be able to commence your studies remotely where possible.

We know that you will be eager to know if this affects you personally. We’ll be in touch over the coming weeks to confirm which programmes are eligible.

The UK has not banned students from any countries if they hold a Tier 4 or new student visa. Exemptions will not be granted due to UK travel restrictions.

Every student is expected to take two rapid lateral flow tests per week. When you return to Sheffield, you’re expected to take two tests, three days apart as soon as possible upon arrival.

Students undergoing clinical placements may be expected by their provider to demonstrate a negative test before undertaking their placement. In some cases a negative lateral flow test result will be sufficient and you should use your text message or email confirmation as evidence of this. In all cases you should follow the advice and guidance from your provider and contact your academic department if you have any questions or concerns.

You do not need to provide medical evidence if you submit an extenuating circumstances this academic year.

Extenuating circumstances are usually unforeseen personal or health problems that are outside your control, and that have affected your ability to complete assessments. You do not need to submit an extenuating circumstances form for general levels of disruption related to the pandemic, for example if you have needed to self-isolate.

What counts as extenuating circumstances

If you feel you need to submit an extenuating circumstances form, first contact your academic department, who will be able to help you through the process. You should include as much detail in your application, so that we can make sure you receive the support you need.

Submit an extenuating circumstances form

We're committed to supporting as many of our students as possible to gain global experience by studying and working abroad in 2021-22. We continue to monitor the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, working alongside government guidance and prioritising the safety and wellbeing of our students in our policy and decision making. 

We will support study and work abroad plans, where it is practical and safe to travel. Please read through the guidance below carefully. If you have any questions, please contact the member of staff in your department who is responsible for your period abroad. 

Study/work abroad starting in semester one

Study or work placements abroad in semester one are permitted where the destination is on the UK government’s green or amber lists. We are unable to support study/work abroad placements in red list countries for semester one. These lists are regularly reviewed. You can check the latest government guidance on red, amber and green list rules for entering England.

We recommend that you familiarise youself with any Covid-19 restrictions in your study/work destination and consider the impact these may have on your ability to travel and engage in activities during your time abroad. We advise that you allow for as much flexibility as possible when making any financial commitments to travel or accommodation.

You must also

• complete a risk assessment and ensure this is reviewed and signed by the academic member of staff in your department/school/faculty who is responsible for your period abroad
• obtain adequate insurance cover (see below).

Travel insurance

You will be covered through the University’s travel insurance policy during your time abroad. However, the insurers will not currently provide cover for cancellation or curtailment of travel, quarantine or vaccination costs as a direct or indirect result of Covid-19.

If study/work abroad is a mandatory part of your degree, the University will underwrite these exemptions. If your period abroad is not a mandatory part of your degree (as per the programme regulations), the University will not underwrite these exemptions. However, if you face financial hardship due to unforeseen costs you may be able to apply for financial support from the University's hardship fund.

All students who need to submit a claim for costs incurred during the period abroad, as a direct or indirect result of Covid-19, should contact insurance@sheffield.ac.uk in the first instance.

Changes to destination travel status

If the category of your planned study or work destination changes (for example from amber to red) before or during your period abroad, you should contact your academic department to discuss the best course of action. If, as a result, the trip needs to be changed or curtailed, the University underwrite or financial support will apply as above.

If your travel plans are for semester two to a destination currently on the red list, please do not make any plans for travel. Any financial commitments made to travel to red list countries will not be covered by the University’s travel insurance. We'lll review guidance on an ongoing basis and contact you during semester one to discuss your options.