Based on the most recent public health directions from the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer and the GNWT, Aurora College will not be implementing the planned COVID-19 Student and Volunteer Vaccination Policy. We will also no longer be implementing the GNWT employee and contractor COVID-19 Vaccination policy, as of March 1 2022.

As a result, requirements for proof of vaccination and for testing of those who are not vaccinated will no longer be required effective March 1, 2022.

Please note, however, that some programs have pre-existing vaccination requirements for practicums and work experiences, such as the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Practical Nurse, Personal Support Worker, and Early Learning and Child Care programs. Please contact your Program Head or Senior Instructor if you have questions about vaccination requirements for practicums.

While some processes are being relaxed, mandatory masking will remain in place for the foreseeable future.  All Aurora College students, employees, contractors, volunteers and visitors will still be required to wear masks in all areas of College facilities and worksites. In compliance with Health Canada recommendations, Aurora College now requires the use of 3-layer non-medical masking as a minimum standard.  This includes 3-layer blue disposable or cloth masks or the five-layer N95 or KN95 masks available commercially.  The use of neck warmers or less than three layer masks is now unacceptable at Aurora College facilities. The masking requirement will remain in place until further notice.

The processes and rules we have in place make our facilities very safe. However, as individuals we must remain cautious, conduct our own risk assessments, and continue to engage in healthy practices by masking, following good hand hygiene and respiratory practices, and using physical distancing where appropriate. It is still possible for further COVID-19 cases to occur and taking simple proactive measures like the ones mentioned here will help keep the risks low.

We appreciate the cooperation and efforts of students, employees and volunteers to be compliant with our policies under the public health orders. Going forward Aurora College will continue to be responsive to any changes that may occur in order to maintain the health and safety of the College community and the communities we serve.

If you have concerns regarding your mental or physical health, please speak with your instructor about your situation. You can also connect with Student Services on your campus for additional supports or visit the Student Toolkit for a list of wellness resources in your campus community.

As always, our top priority is the health, safety and wellbeing of our students, employees and communities. We thank you for your resiliency and your commitment to your studies.

Andy Bevan, President