Exam Update - new lockdown restrictions

As you may have seen announced today, from Tuesday new lockdown restrictions are coming into force in a number of regions, including Merseyside.

The Government have emphasised that the local lockdown relates to social interactions, predominantly focused on ensuring households do not mix, that pubs limit their opening hours, and that residents avoid attending semi-professional or amateur sporting events. There are no restrictions on entering the region in general, or on attending educational activities, including exams, as these are seen as vital to ensure the healthcare system across the UK continues to be supplied with professionals to support the tremendous work it is undertaking during the pandemic.

We have spoken to a wider range of hotels in the city who remain open for bookings, and none have indicated that they will be cancelling reservations.

We have extensive safety measures in place to ensure the wellbeing of all those who attend the OSCEs. PPE must be worn at all times, social distancing is strictly enforced, and the assessment centre is cleaned thoroughly before, during and after each circuit. We are confident that, with everybody following the measures we have in place, that our assessment centre is a safe environment in which to conduct examinations.

The examinations next week, and beyond, will continue as scheduled. We of course continue to monitor the situation and will make the appropriate decisions, as necessary throughout the assessment period, should advice from the Government change.