New normal as University of Wolverhampton reopens its doors
It’s university but not as they know it.
Students are preparing to return to the University of Wolverhampton after six months away during the coronavirus lockdown.
And they are going to have to get used to the new normal at campuses in the city centre, Bilston and Walsall where a series of measures have been introduced to ensure students are safe.
Hand sanitising stations are a common sight, while markings have been put on the floor to remind people to keep their distance.
Track and trace will also be in operation to ensure anyone who develops symptoms can be monitored.
Ensuring the university will be a safe environment has been a huge challenge for university leaders. Unlike a school, where about 30 children can be kept apart in one place, students move around much more freely around the campuses and areas such as the library, where many choose to study.
The first courses began this week but most students will be returning later in the month. Some students have also begun to return to the halls of residence, while others are arriving for the first time.
Vice chancellor Geoff Layer said he hoped “a number” of international students would also be able to join.
He said: “It’s really great to be able to get back into the university. We are looking to welcome thousands of new students and returning students.
“We are very clear about the need to do this in a socially-distanced manner. We need to put the safety and wellbeing of the staff and students and the heart of what we do.
“We always want them to engage, learn and move on to the next stage of their lives.
“Safety is paramount. We’ve introduced sanitisers, a one-way system, social distancing signs and we’re developing track and trace.”
He added: “It’s been a really big challenge. We have not had many staff on campus. They have got to learn the walkways and make sure the classrooms are clean.
“The library works with a click and collect system. We can’t just have people taking books off the shelves.”
Mr Layer said he believed the system would work well as long as everyone buys into it.
“We are really encouraging everybody to be responsible and sensible as they are in every walk of life.”
Students told of their relief of being able to return after months of disruption.
Majida Siddique, 24, who is doing a Masters in accounting and finance, said: “The six months was the worst time for me. I don’t like the environment of studying at home. There are too many distractions. After Covid I started to feel like I wasn’t doing anything.”
Cristina Wilde, 28, who is in the second year of a mental health nursing course, said: “It is easier in the classroom because you are surrounded by people, at home there are distractions. I couldn’t wait to get back to somewhere quiet.
“Everything is clean and the right procedures are in place and they give you a talk when you come in.”
