Delaying your child's start at school

In Scotland, there is one intake to Primary School each year, in August.

If your child turns five on or before the first day of school in August, they will start school that year. To register your child for Primary One, complete the Primary One registration form. [link: https://my.orkney.gov.uk/en/service/Primary_One_Registration_Form]

If your child is not yet five on or before the first day of school in August, they can still start school that year. However, you have the option to defer their entry by a year. If you choose to defer, please confirm this with your early learning and childcare setting. Your child will automatically be carried forward for an additional year and you will not need to complete a Primary One registration form.

How to decide what is best for your child

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.

Speak to your early learning and childcare manager or head teacher, who will be able to give you support and advice to help you make your decision.

Further information about deferred entry is available on the Parent Club Scotland website.