What is Yom Kippur?
Yom Kippur is one of the most important holidays in the Jewish calendar. It forms part of the ten days known as the High Holy Days or the Days of Awe, which are a time of spiritual reflection, renewal, and repentance.
It is a solemn day of fasting, prayer, and atonement. Many Jewish people spend the day in synagogue and refrain from food, drink, work, use of electronics, and travel for 25 hours.
This observance is deeply personal and vary depending on levels of religious practice. Some students may take time off from all academic or work activities, while others may observe only certain customs.
When is Yom Kippur?
Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) begins on Sunday 20th September at sunset and ends on Monday 21st September at nightfall.
Monday 21st September marks the start of Welcome Week which is a key period for both new and returning students.
Guidance for students
As this holiday falls during Welcome Week some students may be unable to attend key induction or social events, including Consent Ed sessions, and Welcome Week activities.
It is important to plan ahead and communicate with staff if adjustments are needed.
Students are encouraged to:
- Let their department or academic mentor know if they will be absent from key events due to religious observance.
- Access recordings or catch-up materials for any missed sessions.
- Prioritise rest and wellbeing.
While course selection for both undergraduate and postgraduate students should not be disrupted by this holiday, students are encouraged to reach out if they face any unexpected challenges. You can contact the LSE Faith Centre at faithcentre@lse.ac.uk, or visit the Centre in the Saw Swee Hock building, room 2.01.
Please, also speak to your Academic Mentor or Departmental Senior Student Adviser if you feel you are struggling with anything academic at this time.
Guidance for staff
If I teach or support students who observe this holiday, what do I need to know?
Students observing Yom Kippur may be absent from campus, or unable to engage online due to religious restrictions. This may affect attendance and limit students' ability to participate during this time. Jewish students may also experience fatigue and limited focus while fasting.
Staff are encouraged to:
- Provide flexible alternatives such as recorded sessions, notes, or one-to-one catchups where appropriate
- Be responsive to individual requests for reasonable adjustments, especially regarding attendance and deadlines
- Where possible, avoid scheduling compulsory sessions or events on the day of Yom Kippur
In line with LSE’s commitment to inclusion and respect for religious diversity, staff are encouraged to be mindful of how this date may impact some students and to offer flexibility and understanding where needed.