thank you for your reply. I have been toying with the idea of a childminder but worry for example that if the childminder is unable to care for my dd for whatever reason, it leaves me stuck. Also I thought nursery would give her more interaction with other kids and perhaps learn more through play as they have structured play. Although, who says kids need 'structured play'... they just want to play right?! Do you mind me asking what age your dd went to nursery from and how you think a childminder has proven more beneficial?

Partner has agreed to look after dd on saturdays so that I can get some 'me' time and do some work and then Sunday will be strict family day - no work... but we'll see...

thank you for your advice x

I went straight from BSc to phd and actually wish I had taken the time to do a masters.. i think that year gives you a chance to think about what you reallyw ant to research instead of what you tHINk you want to research... as in my case... now I am 2 years into it and if I could go back, I would have chosen another topic...

good luck...

Hi fellow PhDs...

I need some advice

I have a 7 month old baby and am due to begin working again fulltime from January. Now on my stipend, this is never going to happen, as I cannot afford to put baby in nursery for 5 days fulltime. I am planning to work in the office 3 and 1/2 days a week. I am in my final year technically but have about 18months left before they say they'll cut my funding.. yikes!!! hence my username gottofinish! lol

Please ladies (and gents), if you have any advice.. i would gladly receive it. what has been your secret to success??!!