Conference

Free Childcare at SEFI 2027

We want SEFI 2027 to be accessible to everyone — free on-site childcare is available for delegates with children.

Overview

We know that attending a conference can be difficult when you have caring responsibilities. SEFI 2027 is committed to making the conference as inclusive and accessible as possible, and free on-site childcare will be available for delegates with children.

A maximum of 10 childcare places will be available throughout the conference, provided by experienced childcare professionals from Tinies North East.

Opening hours

Childcare will be available during the following hours:

  • Monday–Thursday: 8:30am–5:30pm
  • Friday: 8:30am–1:30pm

Childcare provider

Childcare will be provided on-site by Tinies North East, part of Tinies, an established childcare provider with more than 50 years of experience in early years and childcare.

Tinies' childcare professionals are subject to appropriate checks and verification, including DBS checks, references, right-to-work checks, relevant qualifications and first aid requirements.

Find out more about Tinies

Location and provision

The crèche will be located on the third floor of The Diamond, in Classroom 1, within the conference venue. This means that childcare is available on-site, allowing parents and guardians to remain close to their children during the conference.

  • Age range: 0–10 years
  • Places: Up to 10 children per day
  • Location: Classroom 1, third floor, The Diamond
  • Cost: Free for registered conference delegates
  • Lunch and snacks: Provided free of charge
  • Staff: Qualified and vetted childcare professionals

Parents and guardians should provide nappies, any specific items their child needs, comfort items, and any additional refreshments required.

Register your interest

Applications for childcare will open in February 2027. Please complete the SEFI 2027 Childcare Expression of Interest Form if you would like to request a childcare place.

Expression of interest form opens February 2027

Submitting the form does not guarantee a childcare place. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

We will let you know whether you have been offered a place by May 2027. If you are offered a place, you will need to confirm your acceptance within two weeks. If you do not accept within this period, the place may be offered to another delegate on the waiting list.

If all places have been allocated, you can still register your interest and be added to the waiting list. If a place becomes available, we will contact delegates on the waiting list directly.

Before the conference

Once your childcare place has been confirmed, you will be asked to complete a registration form with further information about your child. This will include:

  • Emergency contact details
  • Medical information and allergies
  • Dietary requirements
  • Authorised collection arrangements
  • Any additional care, behavioural or support requirements

This information will help the childcare team prepare appropriately for your child's needs.

Frequently asked questions

What should my child bring?

The crèche will provide a range of activities and games suitable for different ages and abilities, as well as lunch and snacks.

Parents and guardians should provide nappies and any specific items their child needs, such as comfort objects, specialist equipment or additional refreshments.

Can babies be accommodated?

Yes. Childcare is available for children aged 0–10 years, including babies.

Parents and guardians should provide any items their baby needs during the day, including nappies, bottles, formula or other specific equipment.

Can I visit my child during the day?

Yes. The crèche is located within The Diamond, so parents and guardians can visit their child during the day if needed.

The childcare team can also provide updates during the day where appropriate.

What qualifications do the childcare staff have?

Childcare will be provided by qualified and appropriately vetted childcare professionals from Tinies. Their checks and requirements include DBS checks, reference validation, right-to-work checks, relevant childcare qualifications and first aid requirements.

What happens if my child becomes unwell?

If your child becomes unwell while in the crèche, the childcare team will contact you immediately. Further arrangements will be discussed with you depending on your child's circumstances.

Are snacks and drinks provided?

Yes. Lunch, snacks and drinks will be provided free of charge.

If your child has specific dietary requirements or there is something particular they need, please include this information on the registration form. Parents and guardians can also provide additional refreshments if required.

What if my child has additional care or support needs?

Please provide details of any additional care, behavioural, medical or support requirements when completing the registration information. This will allow the childcare provider to consider your child's needs and make appropriate arrangements wherever possible.

Contact us

If you have any questions about the SEFI 2027 childcare provision, please email us. Use the subject line SEFI 2027 Childcare Provision so your message reaches the right person.

SEFI2027@sheffield.ac.uk