Key Worker Application for in-school learning and childcare March 2021

Overview

Early learning settings have now reopened and P1-P3 pupils have returned to school on a full-time basis. Pupils in S4-S6 can also go into school on a part-time basis if they have practical work for their national qualifications. 

As a result of the First Minister's announcement on Thursday 11th March 2021, P4 to P7 pupils will return to school full-time from 15th March. All secondary pupils are likely to return on a part-time basis between 15th March and the end of term break with a full return being planned for all pupils after the Easter holiday.

East Lothian Council requires key workers to apply for in-school learning and childcare for the period from 29th March for children in stages S1 to S3.

This online application process is for new applicants only. 

If you already have a key worker space at one of our provisions this will continue in the new period. Applications for places starting week commencing 29th March close on 21st March 2021.

Parents/carers who have previously applied and been unsuccessful should not reapply.

In order to qualify for a key worker place a family must fulfil the following criteria as outlined in Scottish Government guidance:

• Families where both parent/carers key workers (or the sole parent is a key worker in the case of single parent families) and
• neither parent/carer is able to work from home and
• there is no additional informal childcare available.

We are applying these criteria consistently across all applications.

In-School Provision Hours - In-school childcare and learning will be provided during normal school hours, Monday to Friday.

School Meals - Children accessing the in-school childcare and learning will be provided with a free school meal on the days they attend.

Transport Arrangements - If your child currently receives transport to school, this will be provided.  

Applicants will be notified Thursday 25th March if they qualify for a place w/c 29th March.

Please direct queries to seemis@eastlothian.gov.uk.

What happens next

The key worker application process is now closed and there are no further new placement intake periods before the Easter school break.

All children are expected to return to school full-time after the Easter school holidays, subject to continued progress on suppressing coronavirus (COVID-19).