Deferring Entry to Primary One and Requesting an Additional Year of Early Learning and Childcare

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

If your child turns five on or before the first day of school in August your child will start school.  To register your child for primary one, please use the Primary One registration form. 

If your child is not yet five on or before the first day of school in August your child can start school. However, you have the option to defer your child's entry to school. If you choose to defer your child, please confirm this with your Early Learning and Childcare setting and your child will automatically be carried forward for an additional year. You will not therefore be required to complete a registration form for Primary One.

How to decide what's best for your child?

Choosing to defer when your child starts primary school is a big decision.

Before you make your mind up, it's worth finding out a bit more about how primary one has changed over the last few years. Much of the learning in the early stages of primary school are based on play. This helps create a smooth transition for children moving 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 support and advice to help you make your decision. Further information about deferred entry can be found via the Parent Club Scotland website.