Apply for a Good Time to Be 2 place, like John
A combination of a Good Time to Be 2 funded place at Wizkidz in Newtongrange and now 1140 hours of early learning at Mayfield nursery means Thomas Ferris, 3, is making new friends and learning new skills before heading to primary school when the time comes.
Dad recommends applying
Thomas’ dad John says he would thoroughly recommend applying for a Good Time to Be 2 place for your child.
Up to 1140 hours of high-quality early learning
Eligible families could be offered up to 1140 hours of high-quality early learning for their child in a private or council-run nursery, another setting such a Midlothian Sure Start Early Learning Centre or a childminder.
Thomas progressing well
John loves getting updates from nursery staff on his son’s progress. He says: “Thomas goes to Mayfield Mondays to Thursdays from 8.45am to 2.45pm and on Fridays from 8.45pm to 12.30pm. I had a call from staff recently telling me Thomas is doing brilliant, he’s settling in really well and he’s made friends.”
Speech and counting
John says thanks to Thomas’ time at Wizkidz and Mayfield nursery his speech is “coming on great”. Inspired by his sister who is in P1, he is spelling words and counting to 20.
Thriving
John says: “Thomas was three months premature but all this is really bringing him on and he’s thriving.”
Help after a challenging year
Thomas’ 1140 hours at Mayfield are also helping John after what has been a challenging year for various reasons. However, they are now living in longer term temporary accommodation nearby, which they both love.
Settled at nursery
“It’s a real help to know he is settled at nursery, especially as Thomas was having some anger issues during lockdown which meant things like shopping with him could be difficult,” says John.
Helping John return to work
John says the hours Thomas spends in nursery and the fact they are settled in their home means he is now able to think about returning to work as a labourer.
Are you eligible?
“I’d definitely start by applying for a Good Time to Be 2 place, it’s been a real help to us,” says John.
Find out more