In an effort to help students "worn out" from a school term under COVID-19 restrictions and changes, Western University has extended its winter break.
The university will now close for the holidays as of 6:30 p.m. on December 22 and will reopen on January 4. Classes will resume one week later on January 11.
"I have heard from many of you that this has been a particularly trying year. Assignments, labs, essays and exams have left you feeling more than a little worn out," Western President Alan Shepard said in an email to students. "We hope this extra time off will allow you to rest and recover a little longer, coming back stronger and ready to take on the winter term."
As a result of the longer holiday break, the final exam period in the winter term has been shortened. It will now begin on April 14 and end on April 30.
"We will work closely with each faculty to mitigate additional stressors at the end of the term," said Shepard.
The extended break does not apply to students in professional programs.
Faculty and staff were also credited for their tireless work throughout the pandemic. They are being given two additional flex days to use between January 4 and May 31, 2021 and a four-day Canada Day long weekend in July.