The strike, which started Oct. 16, occurred during a scheduled Fall Reading Week. So there is only one more instruction week left to recoup.

“We are confident that our faculty and staff will overcome this challenge in a way that helps students to meet their course learning outcomes while balancing a focus on student wellness and success,” said an email from Sheridan spokesperson Susan Atkinson.

Unresolved labour issues between the Ontario Public Service Employees Union and the College Employer Council are being referred to binding mediation-arbitration.

A mediator-arbitrator will assist the two sides in settling their bargaining differences and also has the power to determine settlement.

The government has also instructed colleges to establish a dedicated fund with net savings from the strike.

Money in that fund will be used to support students who have experienced financial hardships as a result of the strike.

Full-time and international students will be eligible to receive up to $500 for such things as additional child care fees, rebooked train or bus tickets or January rent.

Students who withdraw from college because of the strike will receive a full tuition refund.