Colchester Institute

Childcare / Nursery

Student Resources and Facilities

The Colchester Campus has a specially equipped nursery with a team of fully-qualified staff. It is open during term time, Monday-Friday, 8.00am - 5.00pm.

It cares for up to 24 children aged two and a half to five years and is registered with OFSTED and the Government Childcare Funding Scheme.

Who is it open to?

Places are offered initially to students and staff of Colchester Institute usually on a first come first served basis. The general public are offered places once all other bookings have been taken up.

Where the Colchester Institute Childcare Policy helps towards the costs of childcare, any Government childcare funding, that three and four year olds receive, must be declared to the Childcare Administrator in Student Services.

How much does nursery childcare cost?

Fees are £4.00 per hour but are subject to review each August. Food costs are calculated separately.

Am I eligible for a nursery place or help with childcare costs?

Are you on a full or part-time further education course and claiming a means-tested benefit? You may be eligible for help with your childcare costs.
Is your child aged between two and a half and five years old? There may be a subsidised place available at the Nursery. Please note: If there is not a place at our nursery we may be able to help with childcare costs at an alternative nursery or registered childminder.
Is your child under two or over five years old? We may be able to help with the costs of a registered child-minder, alternative nursery or after-school club.
If you qualify for a subsidised nursery place you must see Sandie McAleavy in Student Services within two weeks of starting your course.
Student Services will require evidence of benefit, a copy of your timetable and evidence of child benefit or your child's birth certificate. A copy of a timetable endorsed by a tutor is required before bookings can be confirmed.

How do I book a nursery place or apply for help with childcare costs?

To book a place or for more information, please contact:

Sandie McAleavy