Updates on the spring term and summer examinations

University colleagues are advised of two important decisions related to studying in the spring term and examinations in the summer term. 

All students granted permission to study at a distance temporarily during the autumn term will be expected to come to Reading by the start of the spring term. This decision has been taken in view of the COVID-19 restrictions increasingly easing in the UK and globally, making international travel easier and more certain. Later this week, we will be writing to all students granted permission to study at a distance temporarily that they need to be on campus for the spring term by 10 January 2022 at the very latest, as was previously communicated. 

Students who are studying at a distance for medical reasons or caring responsibilities will have the opportunity to complete a form to let us know if their circumstances continue to apply. We will work with these students to consider whether any reasonable adjustments can be offered to support them.  

Students should be directed to Support Centres or the Henley Helpdesk, if they have any questions. 

We are looking forward to welcoming more students back to campus from the start of the spring term. As well as the multiple benefits that being on campus offers, it will provide students with a consistent learning experience. 

Summer examinations 2021/22  

Each School/Department has been consulted about the type of assessment they feel is most appropriate given the nature of their disciplines and programme learning outcomes. Following these discussions, it has been decided that summer exams for 2021/22 will be conducted by a combination of:   

1. Online exams, either over a 23-hour period or time-restricted in some cases using Gradescope. The option of fixed start times for time-restricted exams is currently being explored further.   
2. A limited number of on-campus in-person exams where needed to meet the requirements of PSRBs or for other specific discipline related reasons.  
3. Coursework.  

This decision provides a consistent and fair assessment experience for students and ensures that normal planning can go ahead within the normal timeframes.   

Schools and Departments will be communicating this information to students on Wednesday 3 November, as the balance and combination of exam format will vary at discipline level. 

If you have questions, or require further advice or guidance, please contact your Teaching & Learning Dean.