Some University of Southampton exams moved online
It's after more than 7,000 students objected to proposals for in-person tests
Last updated 12th Jan 2022
The University of Southampton is to continue with plans for some in-person exams - but is moving a 'significant number' online.
It comes after around 7,000 students at the university voted in favour of moving tests planned for later this month entirely off-campus, due to ongoing concerns about the impact of the Omicron coronavirus variant.
A petition was submitted to the Southampton University Students' Union (SUSU) asking for the change to be made in light of concerns around Covid-19.
In a statement released on Instagram on Tuesday, Ben Dolbear, the president of SUSU, said he was 'deeply disappointed' with the decision to continue with in-person tests.
"The decision also comes despite encouragement from the University's executive last week that the student voice would be taken into full consideration when coming to a decision.
"It is despite the requirement of all academic staff to prepare a thorough contingency plan for moving January exams online, if necessary.
"SUSU believes that the University has come to a regrettable position that will make a large number of students feel unsafe.
"As such, we will now be sending an open letter to the Vice Chancellor, asking him to change the University's position on in-person exams."
A spokesperson for the University of Southampton said the concerns by students have been 'taken very seriously' and that the wellbeing of students remained their priority.
They added:
"This is in line with the Government’s advice and expectation that on-campus activities can and should continue. The balance between online and in-person assessment has been carefully considered to ensure it is in the best interests of our students’ long-term education with us.
“We are taking every precaution to reduce any potential risks and will only use venues that have sufficient space to allow for our COVID safety measures to be put in place. We are confident that our in-person assessment arrangements are as safe as our in-person teaching arrangements.
“Assessments are always a time of anxiety, and we have a range of academic and pastoral support in place for our students. If anyone is unable to attend an in-person exam due to COVID, or self-isolation, there is a special considerations process they can follow.”