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This report, on student behaviour during COVID, is very important: https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/educationandchildcare/articles/coronavirusandtheimpactonstudentsinhighereducationinenglandseptembertodecember2020/2020-12-21#student-behaviour
It shows that student compliance was very high and higher than the general population. And that compliance came despite the fact that students were suffering considerably
It shows that student compliance was very high and higher than the general population. And that compliance came despite the fact that students were suffering considerably
In November, 91% of students avoided having guests, 90% always tried to keep distance from others outside, and they were 2 to 3 times more likely than the general population to avoid going out. In other words, the great majority did all they could to stop infection spread.
At the same time students are having a hard time. 59% of those in halls felt lonely, 58% say their mental health is worse due to coronavirus. And student well-being is now much lower than others in the 20-24 age group.
So, for all the headlines of wild student parties, the reality is very different. Students are doing the right thing despite the difficulties. They are showing remarkable responsibility. It shows just how unfair and counter-productive the narrative of blame turns out to be.
But where are the apologies from government ministers who spread the blame? Where are the retractions from newspapers which carried headlines about student parties. This ONS report should be on the front page. It is the truth we need to hear.
And finally, to my own students (who have been remarkable this semester) and to all other students, try to have a good break despite all. You certainly deserve it. It is a privilege to work with you.
