More details have been revealed of how university students returning to Ceredigion after the Christmas break will be tested.

The Welsh Government yesterday announced details of the plans for the safe return of students to Welsh universities in the new year, amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Students will be invited to return to campus over a four-week period, starting from 11 January, with a phased return to in-person teaching.

They will be asked to take a voluntary lateral-flow test when they return to their university accommodation, before being asked to avoid meeting socially for three days. They will then take a second test.

Students not taking a test will be advised to lay low and not mix for 14 days.

In the phased return, universities will prioritise students who most need to return early, such as those studying in healthcare professions, those on placements or who need access to campus facilities.

As reported in the Cambrian News last week, Aberystwyth University confirmed it would be looking to offer students coronavirus tests upon their return from the Christmas break after a system of testing was put in place ahead of students leaving the town this month.

Education minister Kirsty Williams said: “I know students will be eager to return to their university campus after the Christmas break, but will want to do that in a safe way.

“Students will also want to return to learning in person, where it’s safe to do so.

“We’re putting these measures in place to ensure confidence in a return to learning in-person and minimise the risk of large numbers of students needing to self-isolate during the term.

“The lateral-flow testing programme will also play a role in the safe resumption of learning on campus.

“A managed, phased return will help meet demand, so that all students can access two tests.

“This will help break chains of transmission, as anyone unknowingly infectious can self-isolate and reduce the risk of passing the virus to others.

“Ensuring learners of all ages can continue to study has been a priority for the Welsh Government, despite the continuing challenges we still face.

“It’s important that, in addition to accessing the testing programmes in place at our universities, students continue to act responsibly to keep themselves, and others, safe.”