University nursery officially opened

Roseangle House Nursery at the University of St Andrews was officially opened today (Wednesday 26 April 2017).

The new purpose-built nursery, on the East Sands, offers 44 full and part-time places for the children of staff, students and local residents.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Principal Professor Sally Mapstone, who has taken a close personal interest in the project, said: “During my installation address I set the University the challenge of becoming more clearly inclusive. I said that inclusivity is central to how we are, and to how we attract the best and brightest to us, whether students or staff, and to how we keep them here in St Andrews.

“For staff and students with young families, relocating to St Andrews often means moving away from existing support networks. That can be a real concern for parents. I was struck by the fact that the University had no nursery facilities of its own readily available.

“As a university, we want parents to be confident about joining us, whether to take up a place as a student or staff member or to further their careers, so we need to ensure that excellent childcare is available. The opening of the University nursery is a hugely important milestone on our journey towards becoming a more open and diverse community.”

Professor Mapstone (pictured with one of the nursery children) revealed that the University is considering a further nursery in the future.

Ben Stuart, Director of Residential and Business Services, said: “Over the past year, we have been working to open the nursery and chose to work with an established partner. The nursery will provide care for 44 children from birth to five years old, Monday to Friday, and breakfast, lunch and dinner are all provided by my catering team as part of the cost.

“The nursery provides a complete package on the East Sands, and with one of the highest scoring providers of childcare.”

Issued by the University of St Andrews Communications Office, contactable on 01334 467310/2530 or [email protected].