Parents Urged To Check Nursery Eligibility

Parents of young children in Fife are being advised to get in touch with their local nursery to find out if they're eligible for free care.

Because of changes to the eligibility criteria, there are over 1000 nursery places available in the Kingdom this year, up from 448 last year. Around 27% of two year olds will now be entitled to early learning and childcare in the 2015/16 term.

Carrie Lindsay, Head of Education and Children’s Services in Fife, says: 

"Last April 448 two year olds began early learning and childcare in Fife. This year, we are expecting this to rise to over 1,000.

"Our challenge, as before, is to find the parents of these children and encourage them to come forward and see if they are eligible. We don’t want families to miss out - these places can be hugely beneficial to both children and parents, and we’d like to see as many parents and carers come forward as possible."

A list of the criteria which qualifies for being eligible and a copy of the application form is on Fife Direct, along with a list of nurseries who can provide early learning and childcare for two year olds. Parents and carers can find this information here. Applications are also available from any Fife Council nursery. Completed application forms must be returned to the nursery with the required evidence.