In Scotland, almost all children between the ages of 4 and a half and 5 years old will start primary school at the start of term in August.
All children whose 5th birthday falls between 1 March on the year of enrolment and end of February the following year, should enrol in primary school.
Early and delayed entries are possible.
Enrol a child in primary school
Session 2020/2021
Children who attain the age of 5 years between 1 March 2020 and 28 February 2021 should be registered for education during the week commencing 13 January 2020.
Registration should be carried out, in person, at the catchment school for the area in which the child lives. This would normally be during school opening hours, but you may wish to contact the school in advance to check any special arrangements.
You will need
Please bring:
- a copy of the child's full birth certificate
- proof of address
What happens next?
The school will contact you, by letter, with details about inductions days. You will be advised at registration when this is likely to be.
Please note: Registration at your catchment area school does not guarantee entry to that school.
Find school catchment area
Use YourLocation to find your local school or contact your local primary school for details on the area it serves.
You can enrol your child at a local denominational or non-denominational school.
Placing requests
You have the right to apply for a placing request for your child to attend a school outside your catchment area. You should enrol your child at their catchment school before applying for a Placing Request.
Additional support needs
If you feel that your child may need additional support when they start school, our Additional Support Needs page provides information and advice.
Composite classes
If your child is moving into a composite class, please read our, Composite Classes Guide (PDF, 1.1mb).