Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) - frequently asked questions

How do I apply for my child's ELC space?

To apply for a funded Early Learning & Childcare (ELC) space you will need a copy of your child's birth certificate and a proof of address letter, with your name on.

Children born between 1st March 2023 and 28th February 2024 are eligible for funded ELC in the academic year starting August 2026. Children born between 1st March 2022 and 28th February 2023 are eligible for funded ELC in the academic year starting August 2025.

• To make a late application please complete our application form - Early Years useful documents. Please take this directly to your first choice ELC setting, with your supporting documents (See Supporting documents FAQ's). 

Children born between 1st March 2024 and 28th February 2025 are eligible for funded ELC in the academic year starting August 2027.

• You should apply online during ELC registration week in January 2027.

I missed registration week or am new to the area, what should I do?

Please make an application directly to your chosen ELC setting, using our application form - Early Years useful documents. Please note this will be a late application, which will receive lower priority.

There may be a waiting period before your child can attend, while the ELC setting gets everything in place to facilitate the placement.

My child is in the date of birth range for the upcoming registration week, but already attends ELC as a funded 2 year old. Do I need to apply?

You do not need to make an application during registration week for any child already attending a funded 2 year old ELC placement, who will remain at the same ELC setting. You should apply if you want them to attend a different ELC setting when the 3 year old funding begins.

I live in Argyll & Bute, can my child access funded ELC in a different local authority area?

Yes, this is called a cross boundary placement. Please apply directly to the local authority area you wish your child to attend funded ELC in. Please be aware that the application process may take place earlier in the academic year than it does in Argyll & Bute.

I live in a different local authority area, can my child access funded ELC in Argyll & Bute?

Yes, you can apply to one of our partner ELC settings through a cross boundary placement. Please apply according to our timescales, ideally you should do this during online registration that takes place in mid January. Your application will be subject to longer timescales for approval, as we must seek funding approval from the local authority area you are resident in.

Your application cannot be offered a space at local authority ELC settings in our area. You can view the range of options available to you by using the 'partner childminder' or 'partner nursery' filter on our childcare provider page.