Policies for Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) practitioners

Published 01/01/2017. Last updated 31/10/2025

Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) refers to the full range of early learning and childcare provision. This includes family and children’s centres, nursery schools and classes, childminders, private nurseries and playgroups.

ELC practitioners include:

Teachers registered with the General Teaching Council of Scotland (GTCS)
Practitioners registered with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC)
Childminders registered with the Care Inspectorate

Professional learning expectations

Career-long professional learning (CLPL) is essential to improving practice and supporting the development of all ELC professionals. Education Scotland works closely with sector, collaborating with local authorities, key stakeholder organisations and practitioners to develop and provide a range of learning opportunities guided by the National Model of Professional Learning.

GTCS-registered teachers

Teachers must maintain their registration through an ongoing process of engagement in professional learning as part of the Professional Update process.

SSSC-registered practitioners

All Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) registered staff must achieve the CLPL requirements as set by the SSSC.

Childminders

Those delivering funded ELC must complete a minimum of 12 hours of CLPL annually (National Standard: Sub-criteria 1.4). Undertaking CLPL before starting a service and throughout a career is considered best practice.