Delayed and early school entry

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

To defer a child’s entry to Primary School in session 2025 to 2026, their 5th Birthday must fall on or between the day after the school start date in August 2025 and the end of February 2026.

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. You will be emailed an application form which must be submitted by 31 December 2024.

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.

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.

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.

All children who apply for early entry into Primary School are assessed by an Early Learning and Childcare specialist and views are gathered from parents, carers and the Early Learning and Childcare centre the child attends.

Applications must be submitted by 31 December 2024. We will notify you of our decision, in writing, by 30 April.

To request a paper version of this form, phone 01294 310000 or email Education Resources.