Delayed entry to primary one
In Scotland, children usually start primary school in the year during which they have their fifth birthday. This means that in primary one classes, children are usually aged between 4 and a half and 5 and a half years old.
When a child doesn't start school at the expected August start date for their year group, it is called deferred entry. You don't need to complete a separate form to request deferred entry to primary one.
From August 2026, children who defer and turn 5 between 20th August 2026 and the end of February 2027, will be automatically entitled to an additional year of funded early learning and childcare (ELC).
Your child will not be automatically re-enrolled in nursery for this additional year of ELC. If you wish your child to attend nursery, you must apply for a nursery place.
Contact
Please contact your child's current nursery to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your child starting in primary.