Families

Find family-friendly places, activities and support near UEL campuses, with practical information to help you plan life and study in East London.

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Find family-friendly places, activities and support near UEL campuses, with practical information to help you plan life and study in East London.

Families

Supporting students with families

Many UEL students balance university life with raising a family. East London offers family-friendly spaces, activities and services within easy reach of our campuses. For practical guidance and support, visit our Parents Who Study page. 

On-campus nursery and childcare

UEL’s Children’s Garden Nursery and Pre-School, on the Docklands campus, offers childcare for children aged 0–5. It provides a safe, stimulating space near lectures, with staff who support learning through play.

About the nursery

Family-friendly activities near campus

Discover Story Centre - immersive play and story-making space for children of all ages.

Discover Story Centre is an immersive play and story-making space for children of all ages. 

  • Location: Two floors with an outdoor Story Garden
  • Highlights: Creative, exploratory environments for running, imagining and playing

Tumbling Bay - free adventure playground

Tumbling Bay is perfect for energetic little ones exploring the outdoors.

  • Location: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park 
  • Highlights: Features natural play structures, aerial walkways, climbing areas and zip wires

Young V&A - museum celebrating childhood

The Young V&A in Bethnal Green. With family events ranging from storytelling to arts and crafts, it’s a brilliant day out for both parents and children.

  • Location: Bethnal Green
  • Highlights: Celebrates childhood through toys, artefacts, exhibitions and hands-on creative space

FAQs about families and study

Can I study at UEL if I have young children?

Yes. Many UEL students balance parenting with their studies, and we provide childcare, flexible study resources and tailored help to support student-parents.

Is there childcare available on campus?

Yes. Our Children’s Garden Nursery and Pre-School is located on the Docklands campus and provides childcare for children aged 0–5. It’s convenient for student-parents who want safe, professional care close to their lectures.

How do I apply for a place at the nursery?

You can contact the Children’s Garden Nursery (run by LEYF) directly for availability, fees and registration information. We recommend enquiring early, as places can fill quickly.

To find out more, please visit the LEYF website or contact them at:
•    Call: 020 7834 8679
•    Email: gardennursery@leyf.org.uk 

What support does UEL offer specifically for student-parents?

UEL provides academic, well-being and financial support for students with children. You can find tailored information on our Parents Who Study page, including childcare funding, balancing study with family life, and accessing flexible learning options.

Is financial support available for parents in higher education?

Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for childcare grants, the Parents’ Learning Allowance, Universal Credit, or other financial support. The Parents Who Study page provides detailed guidance and links to relevant resources.

Can I study part-time or flexibly if I have childcare responsibilities?

Many UEL courses offer part-time, blended, or flexible study options. Speak to your course team or the Admissions team to explore what’s available for your programme.

  • Our location

    East London is one of the best places in the world to be a student. Our location boasts easy access to all the incredible opportunities London has to offer.

  • Browse our undergraduate courses

    Explore our undergraduate courses, organised by subject areas, then listed in alphabetical order. Most of our undergraduate courses offer a foundation year option.