International employees - Joining Essex from Overseas

Childcare and Schools

Classroom students at school

Finding your childcare

Full-time compulsory education applies to children aged 5 to 16 years (although children will often begin school at the age of 4). If your child was born on or after 1 September 1997, they'll need to remain in some sort of education or training until their 18th birthday.

The UK Government’s Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills (Ofsted) is responsible for regulating and inspecting schools and other childcare providers. It produces inspection reports every few years, which it publishes on the Ofsted website for anyone to view.

The University has an onsite nursery for preschool age children at the Colchester campus. There are numerous private nurseries and childminders who can also provide regular childcare for children of different ages. The County Council website has a handy tool to help you find childcare in the local area.

Essex County Council provides information on local schools, including term dates, admissions and special educational needs. The Council may also be able to provide other parenting support.