Chamber
Meeting of the Parliament 24 April 2025
24 Apr 2025 · S6 · Meeting of the Parliament
Item of business
Portfolio Question Time
Rural Early Learning and Childcare
Education and Skills
There are currently four nurseries being mothballed in Aberdeenshire, just as Tullynessle school was last year, even though it was expected to be full. Parents report that closures are being pursued despite the nurseries being at nearly 80 per cent capacity, which goes against national guidance. Families now face longer journeys, higher childcare costs and, for some, a need to reduce working hours.
Losing a nursery in a rural area is not just a childcare issue—it is a death knell for local communities. Can the minister confirm that the legislation and existing guidance cover nurseries? How is the Scottish Government supporting councils to maintain provision and ensure that rural communities and families are protected?
In the same item of business
2. Alexander Burnett (Aberdeenshire West) (Con)
Con
To ask the Scottish Government how it is ensuring access to early learning and childcare for families in rural areas, in light of reports of recent nursery c...
The Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise (Natalie Don-Innes)
SNP
Access to high-quality, accessible and affordable early learning and childcare is vital for our rural communities. That is why the Scottish Government funds ...
Alexander Burnett
Con
There are currently four nurseries being mothballed in Aberdeenshire, just as Tullynessle school was last year, even though it was expected to be full. Paren...
Natalie Don-Innes
SNP
The Scottish Government recognises the vital role that rural schools and nurseries play in sustaining local communities. I remind the member that responsibil...
Willie Rennie (North East Fife) (LD)
LD
The last two private nurseries in the east neuk of Fife have closed, removing the flexible childcare that parents desperately need in order to stay in work. ...
Natalie Don-Innes
SNP
I assume that Mr Rennie is referring to the gap in funding in relation to the issues between the local authority and private nurseries. I have been clear to ...