Students returning to Aberystwyth University after the Christmas break are expected to arrange two coronavirus tests and “lay low” until they have received a second negative test result, the university has announced.

Aberystwyth University said it is encouraging their students to return gradually from Monday, 11 January onwards, but they will “also be expected to take Covid-19 tests before mixing with others”.

“The university will conduct a programme of lateral flow testing, for asymptomatic students, on its Penglais campus,” the university said.

“All students are expected to arrange two tests as soon as possible after arriving in Aberystwyth.

“They will be asked to lay low until they have received a second negative test result.

“These steps come on top of the comprehensive safety measures the university has already introduced.”

The details of safety measure for students returning after the Christmas break come as Wales enters a lockdown for the festive period over fears of a new Covid strain and rising cases.

The university has already implemented safeguards to ensure people socially distance, including one-way systems, classroom layout changes, holding more, smaller teaching sessions, and more signage, along with enhanced cleaning and hygiene arrangements.

All staff, students and visitors are also expected to wear a face covering while indoors on all university sites.

Aberystwyth University vice-chancellor Prof Elizabeth Treasure said: “These additional measures, in terms of changes for the return of students and the major testing programme, build on the comprehensive steps we have already introduced as we continue to prioritise the safety of our students, staff and the wider community.

“It’s encouraging that the vast majority of our students have worked hard to support our efforts as a university to reduce the risk of Covid-19 transmission.

“The large number of students who took a lateral flow test – a test for those without symptoms – over recent weeks is a testament to our students’ determination to keep others safe.

“Much remains to be done to keep everyone safe, but all the evidence to date suggests that the number of cases within the university has been kept remarkably low since the beginning of September.”

Eifion Evans, chief executive, Ceredigion County Council, said: “We have been in close discussions with colleagues at Aberystwyth University over the last few weeks as we start thinking about welcoming the students back in January.

“The use of the lateral flow testing proved successful prior to the students leaving for the Christmas break and we are pleased to see that students will be tested on their return to campus.

“This will give the wider population Ceredigion assurance that all necessary steps are being taken to welcome students back safely.”