Support for students who are also parents

The University recognises the impact parental responsibilities can have on your studies and wellbeing. There is a range of support and advice available to you as a student and a parent.

Nurseries and schools

The University Nursery provides childcare for children from birth to 5 years old.

Free part-time pre-school education places are available for children from 3 to 5 years old. There are some limits to this. Visit the Scottish Government website to learn more about funded early learning and childcare.

See more on local baby and pre-school nurseries.

You can find out more information about schools in your local area by visiting your council’s website.

Wellbeing support

The University offers counselling, mental health and wellbeing support to students. To request support or discuss your situation, you can book an appointment with Student Services.

If you are a widening access student, care-experienced, estranged, or have a carer background, you can also email theasc@st-andrews.ac.uk to contact the University’s Access and Inclusion Adviser, who can provide advice and wellbeing support, or help you find the right support service inside or outside the University.

Academic support

Student Services can:

• speak to your academic school and ensure any extra support has been arranged
• liaise with your academic school and explore options when your caring responsibilities affect your studies
• help you to get study skills support from the University’s Centre for Educational Enhancement and Development (CEED).

Money advice

The University offers: 

• financial support through the following funds:
  • Discretionary Fund (students who have at least one child who is dependent on them are a priority group for this award)
  • Childcare Fund and Lone Parent Childcare Grant
• advice on budgeting and financial circumstances — email moneyadvice@st-andrews.ac.uk or speak to your support coordinator to ask for financial guidance
• information on financial support from the UK government
• a financial health check to ensure you have access to all the help available to you

Visit the Scottish Government website to read more on children and parenting.

Commuting

We recognise that students who commute may need specific information and support. Visit the University’s support resources for commuter students for more information, or contact the University's Access and Inclusion Adviser by emailing theasc@st-andrews.ac.uk.

The Students’ Association Carers, Commuters, Mature and Flexible Learners Forum (CCMFL) organises activities, meet-ups and resources for commuter students, students who are parents or carers, mature students, evening degree and part-time students. The CCMFL Officer is the chair of the forum and is a member of the Students’ Representative Council. You can contact them by emailing ccmfl@st-andrews.ac.uk.

Careers support

The University’s Careers Centre provides advice and support to students and graduates on how to prepare for a job application and how to find jobs or internships.

Accommodation

Students with parental responsibilities have the following accommodation options:

• University-owned accommodation
• University-managed accommodation
• Private accommodation
• Public housing

To learn more, see the accommodation for couples and families webpage.