STUDENTS at the University of Worcester will now be asked to wear masks when attending lectures following the speech made by Boris Johnson on Tuesday evening.

In his statement the Prime Minister specifically referred to universities when he said: “I want to stress that this is by no means a return to the full lockdown of March.

“We are not issuing a general instruction to stay at home.

“We will ensure that schools, colleges and universities stay open - because nothing is more important than the education, health and well-being of our young people.”

However, the University of Worcester has made some changes to its guidelines. In a letter sent to staff and students the following changes were outlined:

• Students will be asked to wear a face covering when in class where this is practical and appropriate. This additional use of face coverings will help us further play our part in cutting down the infection rate. Staff will also be asked to do this when appropriate, for example when there is a period in a class where the colleague concerned is listening to students giving a seminar presentation.

• Every manager will be asked to look again at how to best implement the balance of on-campus and remote working within their areas of responsibility.

• The importance of social distancing will be reiterated for students and staff.

• We will also reiterate the importance of continuing with a good blend of online and in-person teaching, making sensible and agreed adjustments in the light of experience.

The letter goes on to say: “It is clearly important that we continue with both our blended learning approaches. Over the next few weeks careful consideration will be given to a greater emphasis on online working in those parts of the University where this is efficient, practical, desirable and reasonable.”