The UK’s roadmap out of lockdown

View of London

Find out what it’s like in the UK and next steps out of lockdown

Things are becoming much more positive as we emerge from the pandemic and the UK’s roadmap out of lockdown is underway. With a highly successful vaccination programme, a rapid decline in COVID cases and the easing of restrictions, we’re here to bring some good news about travel and Gap Years.

What are the current restrictions in the UK? 

The great news is that on Monday May 17 step 3 of 4 for the roadmap out of lockdown will take effect. This allows pubs and restaurants to open indoors and people to visit friends indoors in groups of up to six. Also, cinemas and hotels will also open and large events such as concerts and sports matches can take place with spectators. Trial events such as the recent Brit Awards have already taken place.

Step 4 of the roadmap, the lifting of all legal limits on social contact, is on course to happen as scheduled on June 21. 

Jamiee in London Tower Bridge

In the UK currently is Gap Assistant Jamiee exploring London

The UK’s road to easing lockdown

  • Over 67% of the adult population has already received at least one vaccination.
  • The UK is on target to offer a first jab to every adult in the country by the end of July.
  • Hospital admissions are very close to their lowest level since the start of the pandemic.
  • The UK’s alert level has been reduced to 3 (from 5 in early January and 4 in late February).
  • On May 17, step 3 of 4 will be underway. This is the opening of restaurants, cafes, pubs and outdoor sporting events, with all remaining University students returning to campus.
  • A travel traffic light system has been introduced allowing travel between the UK and green listed countries. This includes Australia and New Zealand.

What does the green list mean for Aussie and Kiwi travellers to the UK? 

  • Australia and New Zealand have been announced as green list countries so you do not have to quarantine when arriving in the UK.
  • When travelling from NZ you don’t need to apply to leave.
  • If travelling from Aus you will need to apply for a travel exemption. The category suitable is “going abroad for 3+ months” which applies to our Gap Year placements. We already have a number of Aussies who have successfully departed. 
  • UK visas are being issued and flights are reasonably priced. 
  • Some of our participants have already had their COVID-19 vaccinations in the UK.   
Gaps Assistants in UK

Letz Live Gap Assistants pictured at Sandroyd School in April

What does this mean for Gap Years and Working Holidays? 

Boarding schools re-opened in the UK mid-April and we currently have participants on their placements in the UK having a great time. Travel exemptions are available and easily obtainable for those wanting to go on the program.

Australians and New Zealanders looking to travel to the UK can apply for an exemption with a valid job offer.

Applications are still open for our September 2021 and January 2022 intake to the UK.

Contact Us or Apply Now 

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