We are Northumbria students and we support the UCU and the NUS joint statement calling for online teaching where possible. 

Summary -  

"At the bare minimum the Government needs to: 
1. Urgently coordinate a national test and trace system for universities on campus
2. Enable a safe way for students to leave campus if they need or want to
3. Ensure no financial detriment to any student giving up accommodation places or choosing to defer or leave university
4. Move to online learning wherever possible
5. Guarantee  for universities to help them deal with any shortfall or additional expenses due to Covid." 

Staff support students in so many ways, but if students have the option not to come to campus for face-to-face teaching, so should staff.  'Blended learning' (where you have a mix of onsite and online teaching) doesn't always work when so many students cannot come on campus, or don't feel they can.  It would be a better experience for everyone if staff could devote their time fully to online delivery, and students knew what to expect when they did.  Changing how learn every few weeks causes confusion and anxiety for all.  We know moving online isn't perfect, for ever, or for everyone, but right now it is the best way to keep learning going, and to keep students, staff and our communities safe.  

We are students who wish to make our voices heard and want more transparency and accountability from university management – to protect the physical and mental health of all our students and to stand in solidarity with our dedicated university staff.   

Please sign and share this petition.