We recognise that becoming pregnant or taking on caregiving responsibilities is a very exciting time in your life. It's also important to consider how this will affect your studies and vice versa.
Whether your pregnancy was planned or unplanned, it's understandable that you will have many questions about what happens next. Here, you'll find the information you need on how we can support you and what's expected of you during this time.
Informing the University
You can book a confidential appointment with the Wellbeing Service to discuss your options and concerns; please email wellbeing@stmarys.ac.uk or call 0208 240 4353 to book an appointment.
You can access support from your course lead or personal tutor and the Wellbeing Service.
The Wellbeing Service will complete a pregnancy support plan with you, and your Course Lead can go through risk assessment measures to ensure your safety during your studies.
You can discuss with your personal tutor and the Wellbeing Service
- Pregnancy-related absence
- Temporary reasonable adjustments for examinations and lectures
- Maternity leave and return to study
If you can, schedule any medical appointments outside of university hours. If this is not possible, give as much notice to your academic tutors, who will support you to remain current with your studies.
Implications for Study and Leave of Absence
You may need to interrupt or defer your studies depending on when your baby is due. You can discuss this with your Course Lead, Personal Tutor and the Wellbeing Service, especially if you wish to use the Extenuating Circumstances process.
If you are studying with Student Route (Formerly Tier 4) Visa Sponsorship, changes to your study may have visa implications. We recommend contacting the Visa Compliance team and the International Team.
How much notice should you provide
You must inform your Course Lead and Registry of when you plan to start your maternity leave at least 15 weeks before the baby is due, where possible.
Terminating a pregnancy can be a very emotional and challenging experience. Services are available to support you through this time. Please see internal and external support services in our A-Z guide below for mental health support and advice, or book in with the Wellbeing Service for a confidential discussion.
If you are considering termination for medical reasons, please consider visiting Tommy's website for specific information related to terminating a pregnancy for medical reasons.
You can seek support from the university or external support services during this time.
You may need some time off (and deadlines and exams may be affected), so please speak with your Course Lead or Personal Tutor, who can support you with course logistics during this time.
Internal support
For further information on this page, please email our Wellbeing Team at wellbeing@stmarys.ac.uk, telephone: 0208 240 4353 or by visiting Student Services.
Spaces on campus
Children and babies are not permitted in lecture rooms or classes. We do not have creche or childcare facilities on campus; breastfeeding facilities are available, and there are quiet and break-out spaces for expectant mothers who may need additional rest between classes.
Preparing for pregnancy
NHS guides on finding out you're pregnant, and general pregnancy guides
Apps
- Baby Buddy App- Support through pregnancy and the first six months following your baby's birth. It is designed to help you look after your baby's mental and physical health for a positive start.
- NHS Mum and Baby App - Comprehensive and trusted companion for expectant and new mothers, providing a wealth of valuable information and tools for every stage of the pregnancy journey and early parenthood
- Ovia- Offers a comprehensive pregnancy tracker with personalised content, weekly updates, and a calendar to log symptoms and milestones. It includes features like a nutrition guide, fitness tracker, and a community for connecting with other pregnant women.
- Peanut- A social networking app for women, including those trying to conceive, pregnant, or mothers. Peanut allows you to connect with like-minded women, share experiences, and ask questions.
Charities, trusts and organisations
- Brook: UK-based charity that provides free and confidential sexual health and wellbeing services for young people under 25
- Family and Childcare Trust: The Family and Childcare Trust is a UK charity that aims to make the UK a better place for families. They work to make high-quality, affordable childcare and early years education accessible to all.
- Family Lives: National family support charity providing help and support in all aspects of family life
- Gingerbread: Provide advice, practical support and campaign for single parents
LGBTQ+ Specific Resources
Mental Health and bereavement services
Parental and Antenatal Support Groups
Student-focused resources
- Student Parents website: Practical advice, access to support networks, and relevant information to assist student parents in managing their studies and family life effectively.
Financial resources and work-related information