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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Welcome to Childcare at Queen’s! Here are answers to the most common questions parents ask:

  • OPENING HOURS

    What are your opening hours for full day Daycare?

    We’re open Monday to Friday, 8.15am – 5.45pm

     

    What are your opening hours for Out of Schools?

    We’re open Monday to Friday (as per Queen’s University termtime), 1.45pm – 5.45pm

  • AGE GROUPS

    What ages do you cater for?

    We care for children aged 6 weeks to Primary 7.

     

    Do you collect from schools?

    Yes, we currently collect from Botanic, Stranmillis, St Brides, Forge and Rosetta

  • ENROLMENT AND FEES

    How do I register my child, and when should I apply?

    It is never too early to apply. We have families who apply before their child is born.

    Complete our online enquiry form, and we’ll be in touch once we have checked availability.

     

    How long is your waiting list to be offered a place?

    We can’t answer this question in terms of timeframes, as our waiting list and occupancy levels are very fluid. Our waiting list is reviewed frequently, and places offered out all year round. We aim to accommodate as many families as possible, so as soon as we can offer you a place, you will be contacted. 

     

    When do I get my deposit back?

    Please see our Payment Policy for more information.

     

    What are your fees?

    Fees vary by age and schedule. Please see our Fee Information page.

     

    Do you accept childcare vouchers or funded hours?

    We are not part of the funded hours scheme. Please see our Fees section for more information on other methods of payment.

     

    From a financial perspective, is it better for me to pay through Childcare+ (Salary Sacrifice) or Tax-Free Childcare/NICSS, as I understand it is not permitted to sign up to both schemes to pay for the same child?

    Childcare Services staff do not have information on your salary or tax payable. You will need to contact Tax Free Childcare / NICSS for figures, and also Salaries Office (for Salary Sacrifice figures) and then decide which scheme suits your individual circumstances best. 

     

    How are my monthly fees calculated?

    (Daily rate x Number of days attended per week x Number of weeks in my payment plan) divided by Number of months in my payment plan

    e.g  My daily rate is £71.00, my child attends four days per week and I have a 52 week/12-month payment plan.

    £71.00 x 4 x 52 = £14768.00 divided by 12 months = £1,230.67 (amounts are rounded to the nearest whole pound so your monthly invoice will be for £1,231.00)

  • MEALS AND SNACKS

    Are meals provided?

    Yes, we serve healthy meals and snacks daily. Please let us know about any allergies or dietary needs. Sample Menus are available to view on the Nutrition section of the website. (coming soon)

    Please let us know about any allergies or dietary needs and see our Allergy Policy for more information.

     

    What meals are provided and at what times?

    A morning snack at 9.30am, Lunch and Dessert at around 11.30am and an afternoon snack at 3.00pm.

  • HEALTH AND SAFETY

    What happens if my child is sick?

    If your child is unwell, please keep them at home and inform us.

     

    How do you manage allergies or medical conditions?

    We work closely with parents to ensure all medical needs are met safely. We have staff who hold First Aid at Work and Paediatric First Aid Qualifications. See our Allergy Policy and Allergen Procedure Policy for more information

  • STAFF AND COMMUNICATION

    Are your staff qualified?

    Yes, all staff hold recognised childcare qualifications and undergo regular training.

     

    How do you keep parents updated?

    We share updates via daily reports, email, and via the Interactive 360 mobile app

  • ACTIVITIES AND LEARNING

    What activities do you offer?

    We provide age-appropriate activities including arts, crafts, outdoor play, and early learning. Within our Out of Schools Club, there is also some time set aside for homework.

     

    Do you follow a curriculum?

    Yes, we follow the Northern Ireland Pre-School Curriculum to support your child’s development.

  • CONTACT US

    Have more questions?

     ✉️ childcareservices@qub.ac.uk | 🌐Website  📞 02890 971288