Work is progressing on ambitions to deliver flexible, high-quality early learning and childcare for remote and rural communities in Highland.
Today (Wednesday 25 February 2026) members of the council's education committee were given an update on the Early Learning & Childcare Project, which forms part of the council’s wider delivery plan.
The work aims to design sustainable and innovative ELC solutions, which consider the statutory funded 1140 hours of ELC, alongside wider childcare needs which include:
Provision for babies
Extended hours and holiday provision
School-age childcare across Highland
This work is being undertaken in the wider context of declining school rolls; rising parental expectations regarding childcare flexibility and choice; financial pressures and requirements for efficiencies and increased scrutiny and regulatory expectations from the Care Inspectorate and Education Scotland.
ELC plays a significant role in reducing child poverty, so childcare is also a key theme of the Highland Poverty and Equality Commission, which will assist in supporting work towards improving provision.
The Council’s Delivery Plan has identified the development of a ‘Single Care Model’ as a key priority.
Initiatives being piloted in some areas under the SCM in Highland include regulatory changes which would allow practitioners/workers in both child and adult care to move more flexibly and seamlessly between services.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has identified childcare as critical infrastructure for economic sustainability.
Their Rural Childcare Evidence Report, submitted to Ministers in May 2025, highlights both the challenges facing rural areas and the innovative models that may address them.
A formal response is awaited.
Councillor John Finlayson, Chair of Highland Council’s Education Committee, said: "By developing a Single Care Model we are recognising and responding to the unique circumstances of rural and island communities.
“The council is engaging with our communities to map demand, identify the barriers and propose practical change.
"Making the case for greater flexibility across services can assist in the recruitment and retention of staff and support our efforts for a more sustainable model which meets the expectations of modern-day Highland communities."
Wednesday’s meeting also included an update on the Early Years Strategy, noting the strategic priorities to strengthen leadership, improve quality and enhance workforce skills.
The full reports can be found here https://www.highland.gov.uk/meetings/meeting/5305/education-committee