The Council’s Exec Committee has approved the implementation of proposed models of Early Learning and Childcare in Channelkirk, Cockburnspath, Ednam, Walkerburn and Yetholm Primary Schools for 25/26.
At a special meeting held on Friday 6 June 2025, the Executive Committee also agreed to the proposed membership of a working group to progress the next steps towards a policy for Early Years Provision for session 2026/27 and future years.
The decision on the models to operate in 2025/26 follows a consultation period with parents and carers from each of the affected nursery settings.
Details of each setting’s agreed model, which will be implemented from August 2025, can be found in the report presented to the Executive Committee.
Councillor Julie Pirone, Executive Member for Education, Youth Development and Lifelong Learning
“I am really pleased we have agreed a way forward for these rural nurseries which addresses many concerns raised with us. We can now move forward with the implementation of the approved models, which include colocation of nursery and primary children, as well as the retention of Walkerburn Nursery after relooking at numbers of local children including 2-year-olds. I hope this gives parents and carers some peace of mind for the start of the 25/26 sessions.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all parents, carers and communities who have engaged with us throughout the consultation process. Their support has been invaluable in shaping these models and I am truly grateful for their input. I also want to thank the Director of Education and the Early Years team for their efforts and outstanding work over the past few weeks to get us to this position”.
The recent approval places Scottish Borders Council in a strong position to achieve sustainability for rural provisions. This collaborative approach ensures that the needs and preferences of the community are at the forefront of the decision-making process. This proactive and inclusive strategy not only addresses immediate needs but also lays a solid foundation for the future, ensuring that rural provisions are sustainable and responsive to the community's changing needs.
The working group will begin work immediately, aiming to present a draft policy to Council for approval by the end of October 2025. This will give parents a clear understanding of what to expect when enrolment for the 2026/27 session opens in November.