Delayed and early school entry

Defer entry to Primary School

In Scotland, children usually start primary school in the year preceding or during which they have their 5th birthday.

Automatic right to deferral

To defer a child’s entry to Primary School in session 2026 to 2027, their 5th birthday must fall on or between the day after the school start date in August 2026 and the end of February 2027.

If you feel your child would benefit from deferred entry into primary school, you should speak to your child's key worker who will discuss this with the head of your Early Learning and Childcare establishment.

Please complete the application form below which must be submitted by 31 December 2025.

Once processed, your child will automatically be granted a deferred year. This will be confirmed with you by email.

During the deferred year, your child will continue to access their Early Learning and Childcare in their existing establishment. Should you wish them to attend a different establishment, please complete an application in January 2026 on the Early learning and childcare enrolment page.

Exceptional deferral

Children who turn 5 between 1 March and the day school commences in August are not automatically entitled to a deferral year, however you may still apply. In the first instance, please speak to your child's key worker who will discuss this with the head of your Early Learning and Childcare establishment.

Once you have done this, complete the Contact Request form below and an Early Years Education Officer will be in touch with you to provide an application link.

Start Primary School early

Most children start primary school in the August of the year that they turn 5. Apart from children whose birthday falls in January and February, who can start school in the August of their 4th birthday.

If, as a parent, you feel your child is ready emotionally, socially and academically to start school early, you can apply for early entry into Primary School. In the first instance, please speak to your child's key worker who will discuss this with the head of your Early Learning and Childcare establishment.

Once you have done this, complete the Contact Request form below and an Early Years Education Officer will be in touch with you to provide an application link.

Applications must be submitted by 31 December 2025. We will notify you of our decision, in writing, by April 2026.

If you require any further support, please email earlylearningchildcare@north-ayrshire.gov.uk.