Early Learning and Childcare eligibility and how to apply
When will my child become eligible for early learning and childcare?
Your child's eligibility to early learning and childcare depends on their birthday.
If your child's third birthday falls between:
- 1 March to the end of September, entitlement begins in August, or shortly after your child's third birthday
- 1 October to 31 December, entitlement begins in January
- 1 January and 28 February, entitlement begins after Easter break.
Find out about early learning and childcare for Eligible 2 year olds
How to apply for a council nursery
You can apply for a place in a local authority school nursery when your child turns two.
The nursery application form is available here and also available from any of our East Lothian Council school offices. The completed form should be submitted to your first choice school nursery, with a copy of your child’s birth certificate.
Whenever possible, all children will be offered a place at their preferred nursery, however this is not always possible so it is important to complete section 3 of the application form, listing up to three nursery choices, in order of priority.