Dear student,
The continued excellent progress in restricting the spread of COVID-19 across Australia has led to the Federal Government’s announcement today of a 3 Step Framework for a COVIDSAFE Australia, including the phased removal of restrictions.
The South Australian and Northern Territory Governments have also released their roadmaps and plans for easing restrictions in line with the National Plan.
I have been delighted to see our campus coming back to life as more students have returned in recent weeks. It seems that students are keen to return to greater normality. These recent announcements allow us to do so.
Phased return
The University is planning for a phased return to campus with staff returning by 18 May. This will allow student-facing services and facilities to re-open by 25 May, including the library.
Some of you may have read that the SA Government announced that “Uni face-to-face tutorials can start from 11 May.” As I wrote to you last week, those teaching, learning and assessment activities which moved online in March will stay online for the remainder of Semester 1. Not least, this is to ensure that those students who made arrangements to return home and who cannot return to campus can continue to study without disadvantage.
The relaxing of restrictions announced today mean that those practical class activities which were stopped because they could not be done online can recommence. These will be scheduled so no students are disadvantaged if they are unable to return to campus. Your College and teaching staff will advise you of arrangements specific to your topic and course.
Campus Facilities
We will ensure that the opening of the campus facilities and recommencing of activities will be done in line with the physical distancing and hygiene guidelines from the Health Department which must continue so that we all stay safe over the coming months.
Keep up to date
As further restrictions are lifted we will be able to offer more and more facilities and services. We will keep you posted on developments through Ping! and the COVID-19 websites.
Take care, look out for each other, and we look forward to seeing you in person when you are back on campus.
Clare
Professor Clare Pollock
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Students)