There will be no exams in Cambridge next term as uni shifts into RED phase to tackle coronavirus outbreak

An email was sent to all staff and students this afternoon


This afternoon (18th March), an email from the Vice Chancellor, Professor Stephen Toope, was sent to all staff and students announcing the University’s shift from the “amber” to “red” phase in managing the coronavirus outbreak. This follows the government’s statement that they expect to take “further and faster” measures over the course of this week.

The statement says: “We are asking students – both undergraduate and postgraduate – to return home now, if possible. It is especially urgent for international students needing to make travel arrangements to do so as quickly as possible, as many countries are already imposing travel restrictions. Students unable to leave Cambridge will continue to be supported by their Colleges, and College accommodation will be available if needed.”

It also addresses teaching and exams next term: “There will be no face-to-face teaching in the Easter term, and there will be no examinations in Cambridge. All teaching will move on-line. The University will communicate with all students by the end of March about alternative assessment arrangements.”

All staff will start working from home from 5pm on Friday 20th March.

All libraries will close at 5pm today. All other University buildings, bar a few exceptions will close on Friday.

The statement concludes: “We are all facing an unprecedented crisis. It may be months before we resume normal activity. Throughout that period, the University will endeavour to keep you informed and up-to-date. We will need all the fortitude, resilience and generosity of our collegiate University community to get us through. I am confident that this crisis will bring out the best in all of us.”

What do you think exam arrangements should be next term? Have your say here.

Cover photo credit: Andrew Dunn