Rise in hourly rate for private Early Learning and Childcare providers

Published 24 June 2026

Privately run early learning and childcare providers that are in a partnership with the Council are set to get rise in their hourly rate for delivering 1140hours to eligible children.

Members of the Educational Services committee agreed to an increase of 5.2% for caring for eligible two-year-olds bringing the hourly rate from £6.74 to £7.09 and for children aged three and above from £6.59 to £6.93 backdated to 1st April 2026.

The increase is in addition to a range of support offered to partner providers, which includes free access to professional learning, working groups and annual mandatory training. Partner nurseries can attend education leaders’ meetings, partner provider meetings and have access to an early stages teacher.  Partner providers can also access support from the Council’s Psychological Services and receive guidance and support from the Council’s Early Years Services, including preparation for inspections, sharing guidance and good practice.

Councillor Michelle McGinty, Convener of Educational Services, said: “We value the partnership between the Council and partner nurseries and the joint commitment we share to ensure all children get the best start in life. With a quarter of children across West Dunbartonshire accessing a place at a partner nursery, I am pleased to see this increase passed by the Committee recognising the important role they play in supporting local children in their early learning.”

Councillor John Millar, Vice Convener of Educational Services, said: “Early education offers much more than a safe place to play and learn. It’s where curiosity is encouraged and where every day brings new opportunities to learn and grow. We know the positive role our partners provide in offering flexible childcare to support families and I thank them for their part in helping our younger residents in the first stage of their education.”