Statement on overseas students returning to Jersey at Easter

“I am pleased to announce that we will do everything we can to again help overseas students with self-isolation accommodation if they choose to return to Jersey to be with their families for Easter.

We are fully aware of the UK Department of Education’s policy advising students not to travel at Easter. However, if students from overseas universities do return for Easter, we will again offer self-isolation accommodation for those who cannot undertake this in the family home. 

There are around 1,700 Jersey students in overseas universities who are treated as essential travellers. Last year, at Christmas, we assisted 13 overseas students with self-isolation accommodation. 

Students will need to meet a set of eligibility criteria, and a small team from the Department of Children, Young People, Education and Skills, Youth Enquiry Service, will support this process to ensure both the welfare of isolating students and their compliance with self-isolation guidance.

Demand will be assessed, as under the previous arrangement, and the Department will continue to assist Higher Education students through its Student Finance Service and Coronavirus helpline on (01534) 445566 or 0800 7355566.

And finally, we would urge all overseas students to check with their universities before travelling, and ensure they register their details with Student Finance Jersey. 

The decision to travel is ultimately up to the students, but we would ask them to carefully consider the current health advice and travel restrictions in the country where they are based. The current advice in Jersey should also be considered.”

Students should contact the Youth Enquiry Service on 0800 7350 010 for more information.