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Student Parent or Carer? We've Got You.

Starting university is exciting, but when you're also a parent or guardian, it can feel like you're juggling a lot at once. The good news is that you're not alone. Many students successfully balance family life alongside their studies, and there is plenty of support available to help you and your family thrive.

Whether you're arriving with a baby, raising school-age children, or caring for a young person, there are services, communities, and resources available during your time at Essex to help.

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Finding childcare Study and family life New parents and breastfeeding Financial support Family-friendly accommodation Connect with your Students' Union You're not alone Useful Links

Finding Childcare

One of the biggest concerns for student parents is childcare. At the Colchester Campus, there is an onsite Day Nursery providing childcare for children from three months to five years old.

Places can be in high demand and are not guaranteed, so it's worth enquiring as early as possible.

There are also local children's groups, toddler groups, play sessions, and family activities in and around Colchester that can help both you and your children meet other families and feel part of the community.

Check out the Essex Gov.uk childcare information and the Essex Child and Family Wellbeing Service for more information.

Childcare during university holidays

During university vacations, activities such as the holiday club, CHUMS, at the Sports Centre can provide additional childcare and entertainment for children aged 5 to 14.

Wivenhoe Park Day Nursery also runs a holiday club for children of primary school age during half-terms.

Remember that school holiday dates do not always match university vacation periods, so planning ahead can make family life a little easier.

Managing Study and Family Life

Being a student parent isn't always straightforward, and sometimes family responsibilities can affect your studies.

If childcare arrangements break down or caring responsibilities impact your attendance, you should notify your department via the online reporting system as soon as possible and seek support.

Extenuating circumstances and Late Submissions processes may also be available when caring responsibilities affect assessments or deadlines.

Children under 18 who are not registered students cannot attend lectures, seminars, or teaching sessions, so arranging childcare during teaching hours is essential.

New Parents and Breastfeeding Spaces

The University has a dedicated parent and baby room (5A.223) on campus where you can feed, change or express in private.

You will need to collect a key fob from the Campus Security and Safety Centre on Square 3.

Baby changing facilities are also widely available in campus toilets.

Financial Support for Student Parents

Raising children while studying can put extra pressure on your finances, but there may be additional funding available to help.

Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for support such as:

If you are a lone parent, you may also be eligible for some additional Income Support/Jobseekers Allowance and Housing Benefit, although this may only be available to you during the summer vacation period due to the way Student Finance is treated when calculating your eligibility for such benefits.

For more information on claiming benefits as a student, see the University's guidance on claiming benefits.

Top tip: If you're worried about money, don't struggle alone. The University's Funding team can help you understand what you're entitled to and where to apply.

You can also contact our SU Advice team for a chat about your options.

Finding Family-Friendly Accommodation

Looking for somewhere suitable for you and your family to live?

Our SU Homes team offer guidance and support for students seeking private rented accommodation in the Colchester area.

This can be a useful starting point if you're moving to Essex with children and need family-friendly housing options.

Connect with Your Students' Union

Your Students' Union is here for you throughout your university journey.

Alongside independent advice and support, the SU can help you find information, connect with services, and feel part of the Essex community.

Remember: You're Not Alone

Being a parent and a student at the same time can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.

There will be busy days, missed naps, school runs, and assignment deadlines, but there is a supportive network at Essex that understands the realities of family life.

Don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Reach out to your department, the Student Services Hub, or the Students' Union Welfare team. We're here to support you every step of the way.