The DfE has updated its guidance to FE providers about the return to learning in January 2021, to reflect the announcement of a phased return to face to face education. The guidance states:
W/c 4 January, external exams will take place as planned. Colleges should prepare to test as many staff and students as possible, provide on-site education to vulnerable young people and children of critical workers and prioritise remote education to those in exam years.
W/c 11 January, colleges should continue to roll out their testing programme, prioritising exam year students.
W/c 18 January, all students should return to on-site education.
A summary of the updated guidance can be read here.