Early Learning and Childcare Programme Directorate

We are responsible for developing a flexible and high-quality Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) system for Scotland that is accessible, affordable, and integrated with school and out-of-school care. We are also responsible for developing out of school care policy in Scotland.

We are responsible for providing ELC that:

increases the entitlement of funded ELC for all three and four year olds and eligible two year olds to 1140 hours per year from August 2020 - nearly double the current funded entitlement of 600 hours
ensures children’s development improves and the attainment gap narrows
supports parents to work, train or study, especially those who need help with finding sustainable employment
increases family resilience through improved health and wellbeing of parents and children