Places are available to children of University of Southampton students and staff, and also to children from the local area.
Places at the centre are given to students and then to University staff. Any unallocated sessions are then offered out to the general public. Places are limited and we always have a waiting list prioritised in order of date of application. We strongly advise you to apply for a place as soon as possible. There is no obligation or deposit required at initial application stage and you can amend start dates or session requirements should your circumstances change.
We offer you the flexibility to choose either a morning session (08:00 to 13:00), afternoon session (13:00 to 17:45), or a full day (08:00 to 17:45). We may be able to offer you additional sessions, when needed, subject to availability and adequate notice.
Please note that the centre is extremely busy between January to June each year. If you are seeking a start date within this period and we are unable to allocate you a space, it may be advisable to consider alternative childcare services in the area. More information on childcare can be found on the Southampton City Council website. Once the summer holidays arrive, many of our children leave us and we are able to offer more places.
To apply for a place, download and complete the application form and return it by email to: eycentre@soton.ac.uk or send it by post to:
The Early Years Centre, Building 41
University of Southampton - Highfield Campus
University Road
SO17 1BJ
Once we receive your application it will be placed on a waiting list in date of application order. An email will be sent to you acknowledging your application. We will contact you approximately two months prior to your requested start date (or sooner if your application is for an immediate start) to advise if we are able to offer the sessions you have requested. Please call us if you wish to check your position on the waiting list or for an update on the availability for the sessions you require. Please ensure you have read and understood the Terms of Business before submitting your application.
Once you've accepted an offer of a place from us, we will send you some documents by email. This will include an offer letter, together with an acceptance form which needs to be signed and returned within seven days of the date of the offer with payment of the first month fees. This secures the place for you. Failure to do this would result in the offer being withdrawn and the sessions being offered out to the next family on the waiting list.
The worst thing about having to move is that our son can't keep attending the nursery. You've all been great and he's had a fantastic time.