Nursery Funded Hours in Scotland: What You Need to Know

Nursery Funded Hours in Scotland
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By nuuri team

Reading time: 6 minutes

Learn how to apply for the 1,140 hours of free nursery-funded early learning and childcare in Scotland. Get local council-specific guidance and eligibility tips.

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How to Apply for Nursery Funded Hours in Scotland

In Scotland, the government offers funded early learning and childcare (ELC) to support families and promote child development. This initiative provides up to 1,140 hours of free childcare annually for all three and four-year-olds, as well as eligible two-year-olds.

Understanding the eligibility criteria, timing and the application process is essential for you as parents who want to benefit from this support.

Who Is Eligible for 1,140 Hours of Free Nursery Childcare?

Three and Four-Year-Olds

All children in Scotland are entitled to 1,140 hours of funded ELC starting from the term after their third birthday. This universal offer is available regardless of family income or employment status.

Two-Year-Olds

Some two-year-olds may also be eligible based on specific criteria:

Benefits Received

Your child may qualify if you receive any of the following:

  • Income Support

  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

  • Incapacity Benefit

  • Severe Disablement Allowance

  • State Pension Credit

  • Child Tax Credit (subject to income limits)

  • Working Tax Credit (subject to income limits)

  • Universal Credit (subject to income limits)

  • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

Care Experience

Children who are looked after by a local council, in kinship care, or have a guardian are eligible. Children of care-experienced parents may also qualify.

How to Apply for Nursery Funded Hours in Your Council Area

The application process may vary by local authority. Below is a general guide:

1. Identify Suitable Childcare Providers

Use Nuuri to browse private nurseries partnered with your council. Only registered providers offer funded places. There are also council nurseries, afterschool clubs and playgroups that are not yet Nuuri but benefit from funded hour eligibility.

2. Contact Your Local Authority or Provider

Application timelines differ. Some councils open applications a year in advance, so it’s wise to plan early. Check with your provider or local authority for deadlines.

3. Complete the Application Form

Download or collect the form from your chosen nursery or council website.

4. Submit Required Documents

Typically includes:

  • Your child's birth certificate or passport

  • Proof of address (e.g. Council Tax letter or utility bill)

5. Await Confirmation

Your local authority or provider will review your application and confirm your child’s funded place.

Flexibility and Extra Costs

  • Term-Time Option: 30 hours/week for 38 weeks.

  • Year-Round Option: ~22 hours/week over 52 weeks.

While the childcare itself is free, you may be charged for extras like meals, nappies or outings.

Important Tips

  • Apply Early: Places can fill quickly.

  • Don’t Worry About Changes: Once you’re approved, changes in income or circumstances don’t affect eligibility.

How to Apply for Nursery Funded Hours across all 32 councils in Scotland?

Below is a list of websites for all 32 Scottish councils, where you will find their application forms and processes:

For full council-specific instructions, visit our Nuuri Advice Hub.

Start your search today and find the perfect childcare setting for your family at www.nuuri.co.uk.