Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) update

Members at today’s Education Committee were updated on the ongoing rollout of 1140 hours of funded ELC provision in Highland. 92% of ELC settings in Highland are now delivering 1140 hours, moving to 100% from August 2021.

The Scottish Government and local authorities have now committed to the delivery of 1140 hours of funded ELC from August 2021. The Highland Council is well on track to meeting that requirement.

Cllr John Finlayson, Chair of the Education Committee said: “I am delighted that we are continuing to progress with delivering 1140 hours of funded provision in Highland. I am pleased that, at present, we are still on track to achieve this despite the Covid challenges we have all faced in recent times and the additional Covid-19 restrictions being implemented nationally at the start of the year.

“This is a large project of work and I would like to thank each individual involved for their continued efforts in helping us deliver this essential service which will support  families across the region and so many other areas of our recovery agenda."

From August 2021, The Highland Council will be working with the Scottish Government on a new scheme to support the health and wellbeing of young people and instil healthy behaviours for life. The Scottish Government will fund, via the Council, all pre-school children, toddlers and babies attending eligible settings for 2 hours or more per day, for 1/3-pint milk or a specified alternative and a healthy snack of a portion of fruit or vegetables.