Question reference: S6W-24411
- Date lodged: 10 January 2024
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Current status: Answered by Natalie Don on 18 January 2024
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether local authorities have the flexibility to allow three-year-olds to take up a place at a local authority nursery after the term has started.
Answer
Eligible 2 year olds and all 3 year olds are eligible for funded early learning and childcare from the beginning of the first term after the child’s 2nd or 3rd birthday. Local authorities have discretionary powers under the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 to provide funded ELC to 2 and 3 year olds earlier than the statutory start dates, and are responsible for setting local admission policies.