Your early learning and childcare options
Children aged 2 to 4
Children aged 2
When your child turns 2 you can add them to the waiting list of the early learning and childcare setting of your choice. Your first choice may not be available, but a funded place is guaranteed if you live in Midlothian.
Some 2-year-olds can also receive a government funded place through the "A Good Time to be Two" scheme.
Contact the Early Learning and Childcare setting or childminder you would like your child to attend after your child's second birthday.
Children aged 3 and 4
All 3 and 4-year-olds can have up to 1140 hours of early learning and childcare per year, depending on the child's start date.
Children who are 3 years old become eligible for a government-funded place the term after their third birthday. Midlothian Council will provide a place, where possible, as outlined in the table:
| Child turns 3 | When can the child start? |
|---|---|
| March to 31 August | August (start of autumn term) |
| September | October (1 month and 1 day after 3rd birthday) |
| October | November (1 month and 1 day after 3rd birthday) |
| November/December | January (start of spring term) |
| January | February (1 month and 1 day after 3rd birthday) |
| February | March (1 month and 1 day after 3rd birthday) |
Nursery schools/classes in Midlothian
Additional support needs
Children with additional support needs may get support to overcome barriers to attending.
Questions answered
Do I need to attend the school nursery for my child’s catchment Primary school?
No, your child does not have to go to your catchment school nursery to get a P1 place there. They can go anywhere you choose, in or out of Midlothian (not Edinburgh, see note below), as long as the provider:
- meets the national standard
- is in partnership with the council
- and has a place.
Note: Edinburgh Council no longer accept children from other council areas in their partnership nursery settings.
All providers have robust transition programmes to support your child’s move to primary school.
Will I have to take up the full 1140 hours?
You may prefer not to take the full 1140 hours. Providers tend to be flexible, so discuss your preferred pattern with them.
Can my child attend for more than the funded 1140 hours?
You may be able to pay for more hours, depending on the provider and on available places. The hours will be agreed between yourself and the provider, and a charge will apply.
For more information, visit Childcare you can pay for.
Can I split my hours over more than one provider?
You can have a “blended” place between 2 approved providers. Both must be able to offer the hours you are looking for, so research the options ahead of time.
You must apply to both settings. If one is in a school, the child must attend there for at least 2 days per week.
Will my child receive a snack and meal?
Yes, children attending funded ELC sessions are entitled to a free meal and a drink and snack.
Meals and snacks are nutritious and low in added sugars. Children can make their own choices, making snack time a learning experience.
You can ask providers about the food, and discuss any dietary requirements.