Government support for returning students

The Government of Jersey has announced its support for students wishing to return home to the Island for the Christmas holidays.

Almost 600 overseas university students responded to a follow-on survey from the Government, with more than half saying that they would be travelling back to Jersey during the UK travel window from 3 to 9 December. This will allow them ample time to carry out any period of isolation before the holidays begin.

The Government will be providing information for students who are returning, including regularly updated details on the Government of Jersey website on; which carriers are flying and from where; guidance on distancing and hygiene during their travels; self-isolation when arriving in Jersey; and ways they can access support for their mental health and wellbeing. 

Approximately 45 respondents indicated that they might need help with self-isolation upon arrival in Jersey and a joint team from the Jersey Youth Service and Skills Jersey has been set up to make direct contact with those students. The team will ensure Government guidance is fully understood and will then assess what form of assistance, if any, is actually required on a case-by-case basis. 

Where needed, students will also be offered support packs of basic cosmetics and supplies until they can access proper shopping. There is an expectation that the majority of students will be arriving back in Jersey well before the actual Christmas holidays begin and their families will support them to get them through their self-isolation.

Deputy Jeremy Maçon, Assistant Minister for Education, said: “I would like to thank all of the students who took the time to respond to this survey. I’m equally grateful to the Jersey Youth Service and Skills Jersey for contacting those students directly who may need assistance with accommodation when they return.

“I would strongly encourage those students who wish to return to Jersey for the Christmas period to book their flights now. Unlike other Channel Island jurisdictions, there are currently scheduled flight options for students to book their travel home to Jersey and there is currently sufficient capacity via the commercial airlines for overseas students to return to the Island. 

“The data from the recent student survey has provided us with the information needed to understand demand. We are confident that additional flights can be provided at short notice, on a charter basis, should commercial flights no longer be available.

“Any students who haven’t responded to the survey, who feel that they might need assistance to self-isolate, can contact the Youth Enquiry Service on yes@jys.je or on (01534) 280530.”