Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) – parents' views and use: research findings 2025
This report outlines findings from research with parents and carers on early learning and childcare (ELC) in Scotland in 2025. This research is part of a wider evaluation of the expansion of funded ELC to 1140 hours.
Acknowledgements
We would like to thank Lesley Birse (ScotCen) who provided invaluable support to the research team throughout the study. Thanks also go to our NatCen colleagues for their expertise throughout the project: statisticians Anna Keyes and Godfred Anakpo; programmers Pamela Ritchie and Saroj Adal; and data manager Grace Everitt. Thanks also to Karen Stewart who conducted qualitative transcription.
The research team would like to express their gratitude to all the parents and carers who participated in the study.
Finally, we greatly appreciate the support and guidance given to us by the Scottish Government.
Authors
Hannah Biggs, Lucy Dean, Asiya Hamid, Sophie Birtwistle, Eleanor Holman, Andy MacGregor and Paul Bradshaw.
Contact
Email: socialresearch@gov.scot