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South Ayrshire Council

Early Years

Early Years

South Ayrshire Council is committed to the provision of high quality pre-school education. Free nursery places are available for all 3 and 4 year olds living in South Ayrshire.

What is my child entitled to?

All children and eligible for a free part-time nursery place (5 sessions) as follows:

Pre-school Children will be eligible if their birthday is on or between: 1st March 2008 - 28th February 2009 He / she will be eligible for a funded pre-school education place from August
Ante pre-school Children will be eligible if their birthday is on or between: 1st March 2009 – 18th August 2009 He / she will be eligible for a funded pre-school education place from August.
Ante pre-school Children will be eligible if their birthday is on or between: 19th August 2009 – 28th February 2010 He / she will be eligible for a funded pre-school education place the week after their third birthday.

There are no catchment areas for nurseries which means you can apply to the nursery of your choice. All places are allocated in line with our Admissions Policy.

How and when do I apply for a Nursery place?

Registration for Nurseries and Partnership Centres takes place in January. A copy of the child's birth certificate is required on the day of registration. The exact dates will be advertised a few weeks before on our website and in the local press.

A list of nursery schools, primary schools with nursery classes and partnership centres in South Ayrshire is available.

What if I need childcare in additional pre-school education

The Childcare and Recreation Information Service provides free information on local childcare provision.

Can I get help with childcare costs?

Assistance towards the costs of childcare may be available through the Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit

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