Early learning and childcare
We provide a range of early learning and childcare options for children in Orkney, from funded nursery places for three to five year olds to registered childminder partnerships. This page brings together everything you need to know about our early learning and childcare provision.
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Find a nursery or childminder
Find your local nursery setting, including session times and contact details, and information about childminders in partnership with the Council who can offer funded hours.
Nurseries and funded childcare
Information about funded early learning and childcare for three to five year olds, including eligible two year olds, and about Willow Tree Nursery for children aged six months to three years.
Registration forms
Registration forms for two year old placements, placing requests and childminder registrations.
Free childcare for two year olds
Some two year old children are entitled to a funded early learning and childcare place. Find out if your child is eligible and how to apply.
Choosing a different nursery
Find out how to request a place at a nursery outside your catchment area, or how to split your child's funded hours across two settings.
Delaying your child's start at school
Choosing to defer when your child starts primary school is a big decision. Before you decide, it is worth finding out about how Primary One has changed in recent years. Much of the learning in the early stages of primary school is based on play, which helps create a smooth transition from early learning and childcare into Primary One.