How & when to apply
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 2022 and 28th February 2023 are eligible for funded ELC in the academic year starting August 2025.
- You should apply online during ELC registration week from 20th January 2025 to 26th January 2025.
Children born between 1st March 2021 and 28th February 2022 are eligible for funded ELC in the academic year starting August 2024.
- To make a late application please complete the 2024-25 application form found on our useful documents page. Please take this directly to your first choice ELC setting, with your supporting documents.
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 the application form found on our useful documents page. 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.
Can my child access funded ELC in a different authority to the one I am resident in?
Yes, this is called a cross boundary placement and offers a level of flexibility and choice to help meet family's childcare requirements. Further information is available via the Cross Boundary leaflet in our useful documents section. You should follow the normal application process for ߣsirÊÓƵ & Bute - highlighting to the ELC setting that you are resident in another local authority area.