What are Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur?
Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are two of the most important holidays in the Jewish calendar. They form 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.
Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the Jewish year and is observed with synagogue services with festive meals. It is a time for self-examination, setting intentions, and seeking forgiveness. Yom Kippur 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.
These observances are 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 or days.
When are Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur?
- Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) begins on Monday 22nd September at sunset and ends on Wednesday 24th September at nightfall.
- Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) begins on Wednesday 1st October at sunset and ends on Thursday 2nd October at nightfall.
These dates coincide with Welcome Week and Week 1 of Autumn Term, which are key periods for both new and returning students.
Guidance for students
As these holidays fall during the first two weeks of term, some students may be unable to attend key academic or social events, including Consent Ed sessions, Welcome Week activities, and the beginning of teaching in some departments
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 class due to religious observance
- Access recordings or catch-up materials for any missed classes or sessions
- Prioritise rest and wellbeing.
While course selection for both undergraduate and postgraduate students should not be disrupted by these dates, 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 your studies at this time.
Guidance for staff
If I teach or support students who observe these holidays, what do I need to know?
Students observing Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur may be absent from campus, or unable to engage online due to religious restrictions. This may affect attendance in the first weeks of term 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 lectures, 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 days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur
In line with LSE’s commitment to inclusion and respect for religious diversity, staff are encouraged to be mindful of how these dates may impact some students and to offer flexibility and understanding where needed.