Information

You appear to be using an unsupported browser, and it may not be able to display this site properly. You may wish to upgrade your browser.

When funded early learning and childcare can start

Your local council will tell you what's available in your area.

If your child is eligible for funded early learning and childcare, they will start at the beginning of a school term, such as:

  • August (the beginning of autumn term)
  • January (the beginning of spring term)
  • March or April (the beginning of summer term)

When your child starts will depend on their birthday.

Birthday When your child can start funded early learning and childcare
Between 1 March and 31 August August (autumn term)
Between 1 September and 31 December January (spring term)
Between 1 January and last day February March or April (summer term)

If your child is still 4 years old on the date they are due to start primary school, you can defer your child's entry to primary school by a year. You will be able to get an additional year of funded early learning and childcare for the deferred year.

Visit Aberdeen City CouncilVisit Aberdeenshire CouncilVisit Angus CouncilVisit Argyll and Bute CouncilVisit Clackmannanshire CouncilVisit Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council)Visit Dumfries & Galloway CouncilVisit Dundee City CouncilVisit East Ayrshire CouncilVisit East Dunbartonshire CouncilVisit East Lothian CouncilVisit East Renfrewshire CouncilVisit Edinburgh CouncilVisit Falkirk CouncilVisit Fife CouncilVisit Glasgow City CouncilVisit Highland CouncilVisit Inverclyde CouncilVisit Midlothian CouncilVisit Moray CouncilVisit North Ayrshire CouncilVisit North Lanarkshire CouncilVisit Orkney Islands CouncilVisit Perth and Kinross CouncilVisit Renfrewshire CouncilVisit Scottish Borders CouncilVisit Shetland Islands CouncilVisit South Ayrshire CouncilVisit South Lanarkshire CouncilVisit Stirling CouncilVisit West Dunbartonshire CouncilVisit West Lothian Council

Learn more about when your child can start school.

Find a list of some of the organisations which can offer early years support here.

Back to top