NURSERIES across North Ayrshire will remain open during the festive holidays under a new scheme by North Ayrshire Council.

For the first time ever, a number of early years centres will be open at a time when they normally close for the holidays.

It’s all part of the expansion of early learning and childcare, ensuring all three and four-year-olds and eligible two year-olds can access 1,140 hours of free early learning and childcare each year – double the current amount of 600 hours – by August 2020.

The first early years centres (EYC) to open over the Christmas and New Year period are Springvale EYC in Saltcoats, Dalry EYC; as well as early years classes at Loudoun Montgomery Primary in Irvine; Glencairn and St John’s primaries in Stevenston; Abbey Primary in Kilwinning; and Stanley Primary in Ardrossan. Provision will be available for all children whose parents have opted for full year service, with the centres remaining open over the festive season apart from the public holidays.

Councillor John Bell, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “This is an important step as we strive to ensure our children get the best possible start in life.

“It will be an unusual experience for the staff and parents to see the early years centres open at 8am on December 27 but I’m sure the children will enjoy seeing their friends.

“Opening the early years establishments over Christmas and New Year will be particularly helpful for working parents who have difficulty getting time off during the holidays.”

Kilwinning Early Years Centre and Ardeer Primary School’s early years class will be next to start delivering 1,140 hours from January 7.