NURSERY ENROLMENT 2021/2022

Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) free entitlement almost doubled in September 2020. Plans to develop a new, improved and flexible service for parents and carers across North Lanarkshire are now more or less in place. 1,140 hours are available to all children aged three to five years old, as well as some two-year-olds. The focus is on flexibility for families, as well as an emphasis on quality and a strong connection with outdoor learning and learning through play. Stepps Primary Nursery Class will continue to operate as a term time nursery next session, operating from 8.45am – 2.45pm.

It can get a bit confusing working out when your child’s free entitlement can start depending on when their birthday is. The funding dates for 2021/2022 are as follows:

• Children who reach 3 years of age between 1 March 2021 and 12 August 2021 can take up their ELC placement from August 2021.
• Children reaching 3 years of age between 13 August 2021 and 28 February 2022 can take up their ELC placement the day after the child’s 3rd birthday.

Parents/carers of children applying to North Lanarkshire Council from another local authority should be guided by the Cross Boundary Protocol.

How to Apply

Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, we are looking, where possible, to have applications completed and returned electronically. Application forms have been updated to allow for online completion.  Supporting paperwork, such as your child’s birth certificate and your Council Tax Bill can be sent as a photo attachment for those that don’t have access to a scanning facility.

Forms and additional information can be found by visiting the following website:

www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/ELC

The completed application and supporting paperwork should be emailed to the first choice provider. If your first choice is Stepps Primary Nursery Class, then your application should be returned to: SAllan@stepps.n-lanark.sch.uk

Paper applications will be accepted where parents/carers do not have access to IT.  All paperwork should be returned in a sealed envelope to your first choice nursery, only copies of the supporting paperwork should be provided. The envelope should be dated and marked clearly with your child’s name and the words ’Nursery Application 2021/2022’. Paper copies submitted by parents/carers will be quarantined for 72 hours.