2½ - 5-years

In Hackney and City we would like to ensure that on starting school every single child is as healthy as possible, this includes avoiding serious diseases by having the recommended immunisations.

The recommended routine immunisations are due at 3 years and 4 months of age, and include the 4 in 1 injection. Enabling your child to have the pre-school immunisations is one way to ensure that they are happy, healthy and ready to learn when starting school.

Why is it important?

Hackney has an immunisation rate significantly lower than many other areas of the UK and has recently suffered from a high number of measles cases. When your child starts school they will be learning and playing with more children and could be at risk of catching preventable diseases if they are not up to date with their immunisations.

To get the best protection for your child and the school community it is important that your child has the pre-school booster. Children who are fully vaccinated support some protection for those children who are unable to be vaccinated due to their individual medical needs. It is important immunisations should be given at the correct age as delaying them can put your child at risk. However if you missed an immunisation appointment it's never too late to get them done.

First point of contact

If you are not sure if your child has had their routine immunisations check their Personal Child Health Record (red book) or contact your GP practice. If you would like to talk to a health professional about the immunisation schedule you can contact the nurse practitioner at your GP practice. They will be more than happy to answer your questions or respond to any concerns you may have.

Local services and information

Immunisations

In Hackney immunisations are provided by the GP service. To book an immunisation in City and Hackney you can telephone your GP practice.

Finding a primary school place

National resources

Starting school support

Childhood immunisation resources


Feedback

We value your feedback about the birth to five resource and the information we provide.

This page was last modified on: 9 Sep 2025