UCL and students settle dispute over Covid teaching

University College London (UCL) says it has reached a settlement with graduates and students who launched legal action over teaching quality during strikes and Covid lockdowns.

The university said it admitted no liability and had “worked diligently to deliver teaching and student support in unprecedented circumstances”.

A lawyer representing the students said he was “delighted” and would “continue to represent tens of thousands of students who were at other universities during Covid”.

The details of the settlement are confidential and have not been shared with the BBC.

The students and graduates who brought claims against UCL signed up to be part of the legal action via a website called Student Group Claim.

The two law firms representing them argued that cancelled and online teaching restricted access to facilities and damaged the quality of teaching.

UCL argued that it prioritised students’ wellbeing and “educational achievements”.

David Hamon, the lead claimant in the cases against UCL, said members of the Student Group Claim had settled their claims on “confidential terms with no admission of liability or wrongdoing by any party”.

“The parties are pleased that this dispute has now been resolved by agreement without the need for the trial to go ahead,” he added.

Adam Zoubir, partner at Harcus Parker solicitors, said he was “delighted that this settlement provides a resolution for our clients”, adding: “This is the end of the claim against UCL, but we continue to represent tens of thousands of students who were at other universities during Covid.”

Shimon Goldwater, partner at Asserson solicitors, said he was “very pleased” and Student Group Claim would “now turn its attention to claimants who attended other universities during the pandemic”.

Michael Spence, UCL president and provost, said he recognised that the Covid pandemic had been “incredibly difficult for students” and the university’s response was “responsible and robust”.

“Staff acted quickly, strictly following government guidance, and worked diligently to deliver teaching and student support in unprecedented circumstances,” he said.

“Every decision was made to safeguard health while preserving the highest possible academic standards.”

He said UCL had “never disputed the principle that individuals may seek legal remedies” and added: “This resolution enables us to focus on our core mission of delivering world-leading research and education.”