FACE-to-face teaching will be cancelled at Winchester University amid coronavirus concerns.

The university has today (Monday) told students that it will stop all in class teaching on Friday in response to the announced of the ‘delay’ phase announced by the UK Government.

Although the education establishment has not had a confirmed case it has decided to “safeguard” its community.

A statement from the senior management team said: “At the University of Winchester, the wellbeing of our students and our staff is always our top concern. We have not had a confirmed case of Covid-19 at the University but to safeguard our whole community at this uncertain time the senior management team, in consultation with the deans, the recognised trade unions, and the student union, has made the decision to end face-to-face teaching after Friday 20 March.”

The university has also said that anyone who either has a high temperature or a new persistent cough developed in the last 48 hours, are “required” to self-isolate for 7 days from the onset of symptoms, working remotely as far as is possible in the first instance or ceasing work to begin recorded self-certification of sick leave.

“We recognise that this will have a variable impact on departments across the institution and our focus will be on providing and maintaining core teaching, student support and campus facilities in operation during this period,” the statement continued.

“The university will continue to focus its efforts on resilience and support of the community, following guidance from PHE and other advisory bodies. Departmental managers are asked to closely monitor the ongoing situations with teams and facilitate home-working for those in isolation as far as is possible.”