We’ve had lots of questions from students about what support is in place as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. We know this is a really tough time to be a student, so if you're worried about how it's impacting you please get in touch so we can help.

University Regulations for assessment in periods of emergency, with specific relation to Covid-19 can be found in section E2.13 of the Regulations for Awards (Taught courses)

Safety Net Policy

The purpose of the safety net was to ensure that grades achieved during the disruption of Covid-19 towards the end of the 2019/20 academic year wouldn’t negatively impact a student’s overall degree classification whilst at University. This was due to the short amount of time the University had to move teaching and assessments online due to the lockdown. This academic year (2020/21) the safety net will apply in the following way to undergraduates:  

• If you were a 2nd year in 2019/20, your 2nd year grades won’t negatively impact your final overall grade. If your 2nd year grades would have a positive effect on your overall classification, they will be included in the calculation. (Courses with external accreditors/regulators may not be covered by the safety net) 
• If you were a 3rd year in 2019/20 on a four-year course, then your 3rd year grades won’t negatively impact your final overall classification. If your 3rd year grades would have a positive effect on your overall grade they will be included in the calculation. This includes sandwich year grades, if these count towards your degree classification (Courses with external accreditors/regulators may not be covered by the safety net) 
• If you were on placement in 2019/20 and your placement year does not contribute to your classification, then the safety net doesn’t apply to you as you didn’t take graded assessments at the end of the 2019/20 academic year.   

Grade Safety Policy

This new policy ensures taught students are not disadvantaged in terms of module marks. What this policy means is that the University will compare this year’s module marks with previous years’ module marks, and if they are significantly different then module marks will be adjusted before the Course Assessment Boards take place.

You should try to complete any assessments set by your Course Leader, there will be opportunities to retake if you think you need it. If you are ill, caring for a family member who is ill, are a key worker, or are unable to access appropriate IT, you should in the first instance apply for an extension. You can also apply for Extenuating Circumstances if you think you need longer.

If you have questions about your individual circumstances, or what assessments you are required to complete please speak to your Course Leader or supervisor.