Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, oats, cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add Butter: Add the cubed cold butter into the dry ingredients and rub it in using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
Incorporate Dates: Stir in the chopped dates evenly into the mixture.
Add Milk: Make a well in the center, pour in the milk, and stir gently with a knife to combine until the dough just comes together.
Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it. Pat it down to about 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick and use a scone cutter to cut out rounds.
Bake: Place the scones on the prepared baking tray, brush the tops with milk or a beaten egg (optional), and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool & Serve: Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving.