01/12/2025
📢 EARLY LEARNING & CHILDCARE FUNDED PLACES 2026/2027
Applications for funded Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) places for the 2026/27 school year are coming up next week.
👶 Who is eligible?
Children born between August 19, 2021 and February 29, 2024 are entitled to free ELC in 2026/27.
If your child turns 3:
• By August 31, 2026 → Eligible from Aug 2026*
• By December 31, 2026 → Eligible from January 5 2027
• By February 28, 2027 → Eligible from April 12, 2027
*Children must have turned 3 the day before term starts.
Term dates vary each year and you can check here:
📅 Term dates:https://abshirepublications.blob.core.windows.net/acblobstorage/1f6d4157-412e-42c6-bf6e-90d099064c90/school-holiday-planner-25-30.pdf
🏫 Where can my child get a funded place?
Funded places are available in:
• Local authority nurseries
• Commissioned playgroups
• Private day nurseries
• Commissioned childminders
All funded ELC settings are regulated by Education Scotland and the Care Inspectorate, and quality assured by Aberdeenshire Council.
📝 When and how to apply
Local Authority Nurseries:
Apply online between December 8–19, 2025.
ℹ️ Info and forms will be available here:
https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/schools/childcare-and-early-learning/3-and-4-year-olds/
You will later need to provide:
• Your child’s birth certificate
• Proof of address (e.g. recent utility bill or bank statement)
Commissioned playgroups, private nurseries and childminders:
1️⃣ Apply directly to your chosen provider from December 8, 2025.
2️⃣ Once a place is secured, your provider will ask you to complete the online funded hours application. This funding will be paid direct to your chosen funded provider by Aberdeenshire Council.
(If you don’t complete this step, the provider may charge you full fees.)
📘 Full details and a list of providers can be found in the “Applying Early Learning and Childcare for Your Child” booklet here https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/schools/childcare-and-early-learning/3-and-4-year-olds/.
