Queen’s University Scraps Fee Hike for Student Creche: What It Means for Families

A significant change is happening at Queen’s University Belfast (QUB). The university recently decided against a plan to more than double childcare fees for existing students with children. Originally, students were set to pay £66 per day for full-time childcare starting September 2025, up from £28. Part-time childcare was also set to rise sharply, from £31 to £69 per day.

After feedback from students, QUB reversed this decision, allowing current users to continue paying the existing rates for the next few years or until their studies finish. In a statement, the university recognized the concerns raised and expressed relief that current students would not face this burden.

However, new students enrolling their children in QUB childcare from September 2025 will still encounter those steep fees. This raises crucial questions about student support. Because many students are not in full-time work, they don’t qualify for existing childcare subsidies provided by the local government.

### Student Reactions

PhD student Christian Nsonwu voiced the struggles facing students with families. He highlighted that the childcare services influenced his decision to attend QUB, emphasizing their importance for balancing studies and family life. With a three-year-old son and a second child on the way, he stated that rising childcare costs could force students to reconsider their studies.

Nsonwu shared that if the planned increase had taken effect, his family’s monthly childcare costs could jump from about £360 to around £800. He expressed gratitude for the university’s reversal, acknowledging it as a significant relief. “This will help us maintain a stable budget,” he said.

### Understanding Broader Trends

The situation at QUB reflects a wider trend in the UK. According to a recent study by the Institute for Fiscal Studies, childcare costs have been rising steadily. Over the past decade, fees have increased by nearly 50%. This trend presents a growing challenge for students nationwide, many of whom are balancing academic obligations while managing family responsibilities.

Queen’s University asserts that it remains dedicated to supporting its students. They are currently the only higher education institution in Northern Ireland providing on-site childcare tailored for students. The university also invests £300,000 annually to help subsidize these services.

### Conclusion

As universities assess their support systems, QUB’s change indicates a responsiveness to student needs. While existing students can breathe a sigh of relief, the increased fees for newcomers pose an ongoing challenge. This issue underscores the importance of accessible childcare for educational success.

For those interested in further insights on childcare economics, the UK Childcare Survey provides additional context on industry trends and family challenges.



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