A PETITION for a ‘No Detriment’ policy to be applied to the grades of University of Worcester students has attracted hundreds of signatures.
The petition asks for the minimum grade for a previous passing submission to be taken as the current average, with higher grades still on offer for those who manage to achieve it in the summer exams.
The policy, being called a ‘safety net’ for students during the pandemic, has already been adopted by universities across the country.
Niall Higham, 23, who is in his third year studying creative media is behind the petition, that in just three days had received nearly 600 signatures.
Mr Higham said: “It is difficult for the university, and we thank them for extending submission deadlines. But a lot of people are talking about anxiety, mental health issues, and the stress is only adding to it.
"We are having online sessions, but for example audio is a huge issue and if your connection drops out you can miss things. It is not the same as being in the same room.
"The lockdown also causes problems, for example getting holding of some books.
"It is unfair to expect students can simply continue achieving the grades they’ve shown themselves to be capable of whilst unable to access so many vital facilities and resources.”
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Professor Sarah Greer, deputy vice chancellor, said: “The University of Worcester has been working very hard to adapt to a very complicated, unprecedented and rapidly changing situation. The health and wellbeing of our students and staff has been our number one priority throughout.
"Our staff have been working tirelessly to move all teaching online, while also addressing a significant amount of other issues, such as complex student placements in the NHS and schools. The university has also agreed to waive accommodation fees for students living in halls of residence, who have now returned home and continues to work closely with the Students’ Union to address any other concerns students have.
"This has, of course, included considering how assessments will work in the coming weeks and months and we are trying our best to meet the needs of everyone. We are continuing to look at all options so each student has the support they need.
"We are very grateful to our students for their continued understanding and kind words as we try to meet their needs to ensure they complete their courses, and for the professionalism and commitment of our staff as we navigate our way through these difficult times together.”
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