From August 2021, the funded entitlement to Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) in Scotland increased from 600 to 1,140 hours per year for all 3- and 4-year-olds as well as eligible 2-year-olds. In the 2021 Programme for Government, the Scottish Government further committed to expanding funded ELC to all 1- and 2-year-olds. Alma Economics was commissioned by the Scottish Government to map existing ELC provision for 1- and 2-year-olds in Scotland to understand what provision currently exists for this age group, identify good practice, and understand challenges that need to be addressed within the design of the new policy.

Through analysis of secondary data, a survey of local authorities, interviews and focus groups with relevant stakeholder groups, and interviews and a survey of ELC providers, we mapped national ELC provision for 1- and 2-year-olds in Scotland and created detailed case studies focusing on 4 local authorities. We found that childminders and nurseries constitute the most common provision type for younger children. However, across all provider types, there are gaps in provision for 1- and 2-year-olds. Those gaps are more pronounced in rural, island and remote communities. The recruitment and retention of staff were emphasised as primary challenges in providing ELC to younger children, together with capacity issues and the need for facility changes and additions to appropriately address the needs of 1- and 2-year-olds. Holistic ELC programmes that support both children and their families and programmes tailored to the varying needs of children and families were identified as examples of good practice.

➥ Read the report here.