International Advice Service: support for families
If you're bringing a family to Dundee, find out what services are available to you
What you need to know before you arrive in Dundee
The process for applying for school and nursery places may be more complex than anticipated. We encourage you to plan to arrive early so that you can find accommodation and enrol your children before you commence your studies, if possible. You will need a Dundee address in order to enrol your child, so you need to secure accommodation before applying.
University International Families Group
This friendly and welcoming group welcome international students and their children. The University International Families Group meets every Wednesday morning during the University term time from 10am to 1pm in the Chaplaincy Centre near the library. Practice speaking English and make friendships. Toys are available for children and there are free refreshments. This is not a childminding service, Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Email farquars@friendsinternational.org.uk or s.d.scott@dundee.ac.uk for further information.
Dundee City Council Nursery Schools
Local Council Nurseries are for children aged between 2/3 – 5 depending on the nursery, To enrol your child at a funded nursery school in the Dundee area, you should contact the nursery directly to find out about places and their enrolment process well in advance.
There is no guarantee places will be available immediately in council run nurseries.
Private Nursery and Childcare
There are a range of private nurseries and registered child minders throughout the City, ranging from £30 - £40 per full day. Search on-line and contact them directly for more details.
Enrolment in primary and secondary schools in Dundee
Applications for primary school places can only be submitted once you are in the country. Please contact a school directly about enrolling your child. You normally apply to the school nearest your home.
The academic year begins in August for primary and secondary schools in Scotland. Children generally start primary school at age 5 and secondary school at age 12.
Finding Accommodation for your family
We recommend that you arrive in Dundee alone and have your family join you once you've found suitable accommodation. University Residences do not provide family accommodation.
If as a last resort, you feel you need to consider deferring your place because you are bringing a young family with you, please email our Admissions Team at contactus@dundee.ac.uk and they will look sympathetically on individual circumstances.
Parent Services from the Early Years team in Dundee City Council
This group support the development and delivery of services for families with children under 5 years of age, focusing on supporting families to support their children's learning.
The Parent Development Officers support early years staff in their work with families through mentoring, developing and delivering training.