- Why does the University have safeguarding rules for children?
- Are children allowed on campus?
- What childcare is available?
- University Day Nursery and other local nurseries
- How can I find a registered childminder?
- How do I apply for a school place?
- What childcare is available during school holidays?
- Are there breastfeeding and expressing facilities on campus?
- Is family accommodation available?
- What financial support is available?
- What wellbeing support is available?
- Need more support?
Why does the University have safeguarding rules for children?
The University has a responsibility to safeguard children and young people on campus and to provide a safe environment for students, staff and visitors.
Children require appropriate supervision, and some University activities and environments may not be suitable for children. For this reason, restrictions apply to where children can be present on campus.
This page explains the University's approach to safeguarding children and highlights the support available to student parents and carers.
Are children allowed on campus?
We understand that childcare arrangements can occasionally break down, making it difficult to attend classes.
To help keep children safe and meet the University's safeguarding responsibilities, children are not normally permitted in lectures, classes, tutorials or other University learning spaces unless permission has been granted and an appropriate risk assessment has been completed.
If childcare difficulties mean you cannot attend a class, contact your lecturer or Programme Leader to discuss how you can access the teaching materials.
If your caring responsibilities are having an ongoing impact on your studies, speak to your Personal Tutor for advice and support.
What childcare is available?
University Day Nursery
The University Day Nursery provides on-campus childcare for students, staff and external applicants.
The nursery accepts children aged from 3 months to 5 years.
Although the nursery is currently at capacity for many sessions, staff will try to accommodate requests where possible or signpost families to alternative childcare providers.
For more information, visit the University's childcare pages.
Other local nurseries
Other childcare providers in the local area include:
How can I find a registered childminder?
You can search for registered childminders in your area using your postcode through the GOV.UK find a registered childminder service
How do I apply for a school place?
Information about primary and secondary school admissions, including how to apply, is available on the GOV.UK school admissions
What childcare is available during school holidays?
Herts Sports Village runs holiday activity camps with APEX for children during school holidays.
You may also find information about holiday clubs and childcare activities through your local authority website.
Are there breastfeeding and expressing facilities on campus?
Students who are breastfeeding or expressing milk have access to private and hygienic facilities across both campuses.
First Aid Rooms can also be used and have access to refrigerators for storing expressed milk.
Locations can be found using the Herts Mobile app.
College Lane Campus
First Aid Rooms are available in:
- Learning Resources Centre (J150)
- The Forum (B525)
- Art and Design Building (AA196)
- Science Building (J014)
de Havilland Campus
First Aid Rooms are available in:
Is family accommodation available?
If you are looking for accommodation suitable for families, the following guidance may help:
Housing support
If you are homeless or at risk of homelessness, you may be able to receive support from the Housing Options Team at Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council.
What financial support is available?
The University offers a range of financial support options for students experiencing financial hardship.
Depending on your circumstances, support may include:
- Grants
- Funds
- Allowance schemes
- Child Tax Credit information
For more information, visit the Student Parents financial support pages.
What wellbeing support is available?
Student parent support
The University provides information and support for student parents and carers, including:
- Academic support
- Wellbeing support
- Financial support
- Advice on balancing study and parenting responsibilities
Further information is available through the Student Parents guidance pages.
24/7 wellbeing helpline and app
If you need immediate support or guidance, you can access the University's free and confidential wellbeing services provided by PAM Wellness.
Telephone support
Freephone: 0808 196 3533
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
PAM Assist Wellbeing App
To register:
- Visit the PAM Assist website.
- Use organisation code UH101.
The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Need more support?
If your childcare responsibilities, family circumstances or wellbeing are affecting your studies, support is available.
You can speak to:
- Your Personal Tutor
- Your Programme Leader
- Student Wellbeing services
Further information for student parents and carers can be found on the University's Student Parents support pages.
If you need immediate wellbeing support, contact the 24/7 PAM Wellness helpline on 0808 196 3533.