Early Learning and Childcare

Apply for a funded ELC place

Enrolment week for Session 2026/27 is from 17 to 21 November 2025

Please note the application form is currently offline for updating.  The form will be available again from 9am on 17 November.

Before completing the online enrolment form, please contact the provider(s) where you would like your child to attend to ensure that space is available.

Three and four year old and deferred entry applications

This applies to all children currently accessing an early learning or childcare funded placement (including eligible 2 year olds) and children who will turn three between 1 March 2026 and 28 February 2027.

Our Eligible two-year-old enrolment webpage provides information on enrolment for those eligible in this age group.

How to apply for a nursery place

Parents and carers need to register for a MyScotBorders account to apply for a place.

Before applying, parents or carers should contact the setting where they would like their child to attend to ensure that space is available.

Parents and carers will need the following documents when making the application:

  • An electronic copy (or photo) of your child’s birth certificate.
  • An electronic proof of your address, such as a council tax letter or child benefit notice, is also required to be uploaded at the time of application.

Where possible, all children will be able to access a funded place with their preferred provider; however, this cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, it is important to select a second-choice provider when completing the application form, which will be available from 17 November.

Prior to completing our online enrolment form, please ensure you have spoken with the ELC provider of your choice.

Please note, any applications received for session 2026/27 session prior to enrolment week will not be processed, and parents will be asked to reapply.

Applications for deferred entry and for summer holiday placements closes on 31 May.

 

 

 

Privacy Notice - Application for an early learning and childcare place

Early years team

Address: Council Headquarters
Newtown St. Boswells
Melrose
TD6 0SA

Telephone: 01835 824000

Fax: 01835 825091