Dear colleagues,
In recognition of efforts made across the University over the last year, and as part of our ongoing commitment to staff wellbeing, the senior team has confirmed three ex-gratia days of additional leave for use during the closure period this coming winter.
For many of our colleagues, this means that the University will close at 5.00pm on Friday 19 December 2025 and re-open on Monday 5 January 2026. Full details are in the timeline below.
We hope the additional time off provides for an opportunity for you to enjoy the festive period with friends and family. We are aware that a number of our colleagues continue to support our operations during this period, something we acknowledge and are exceptionally grateful for. Colleagues undertaking this work will be supported by their local leadership to take this additional leave before the end of January 2026.
We’ve prepared some FAQs to help answer any questions you may have.
If you have any further questions, please contact your line manager.
With best wishes
Nick
Nick Edwards
Interim Director of People, Academic Services and Online Education
The closure dates and requirements for leave are as follows:
Monday 22 December 2025 Ex-gratia paid day provided
Tuesday 23 December 2025 Ex-gratia paid day provided
Wednesday 24 December 2025 Ex-gratia paid day provided
Thursday 25 December 2025 Annual leave
Friday 26 December 2025 Annual leave
Monday 29 December 2025 Annual leave
Tuesday 30 December 2025 Annual leave
Wednesday 31 December 2025 Annual leave
Thursday 1 January 2026 Annual leave
Friday 2 January 2026 Annual leave