Families:
If you are moving with your family, it is important to plan ahead, particularly for your children’s education. You will usually need a Cambridge address before applying for a school place.
Childcare Office
The Childcare Office supports University staff and students with information on childcare, schooling, healthcare, financial support, and local services.
Finding Childcare Provision
Nurseries, pre-schools, and child-minders in the UK are regulated by Ofsted and regularly inspected. Reports are available online and provide a useful indication of quality. You may also find it helpful to ask colleagues for recommendations.
Babies and Infants
The NHS provides guidance and support for parents, including advice from GPs and health visitors. Local support groups, such as parent and toddler or breastfeeding groups, may also be available.
Pre-School, Nurseries and Childcare
There are several childcare options available for children under five:
- Day nurseries offering full-day care and early education
- Local authority nursery schools with part-time and full-time sessions
- Childminders providing flexible care in a home setting
- Pre-schools and playgroups offering part-time early education
You can search for local providers using Childcare.co.uk and DayNurseries.co.uk, or via the Cambridgeshire County Council Family Information Directory.
Schools and Choosing a School
Education in the UK is compulsory for children aged 5 to 16, and state schools are free. School admissions are managed by Cambridgeshire County Council.
The academic school year runs from September to July and is divided into three terms. School places can be limited, so early planning is recommended.
State school places are usually allocated based on catchment area, meaning where you live will affect which school your child can attend. It is important to consider this when choosing accommodation.
You can research schools using Ofsted reports and league tables, and by seeking advice from colleagues or the Childcare Office.
Applying to a School
Applications are managed by the County Council. For the latest information, visit:
Apply for a school place
If your child has additional needs, contact the local authority early to discuss available support.
The Parents’ School Preference Adviser offers free, impartial advice on admissions, school choice, and the application process. More details are available here:
School preference advice
Independent Schools
Independent (private) schools are also available locally and are fee-paying. Further information can be found at Independent Schools Council.