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- RIGHT COLUMN: Contact HIVE with your specific query.
- CENTRAL SECTION: All the latest posts in date order:

Friday, 11 April 2025

Hallerbos Forest Annual Spring Flower Display open now until May 4th 2025

Fancy a walk through the Bluebells?

Then head to Hallerbos Forest near Halle and see the dazzling display of Spring flowers in their brief annual blossoming season, before they are gone for another year.

A floral carpet of Bluebells, Daffodils, Wood Anemones and Buttercups can be seen until Sunday 4th May 2025.

A shuttle bus service is in operation from the train station each weekend from 12th April until the end of the month and then on 1st May.

Never Such Innocence Poetry Competition for 80th Anniversary of VE Day

Here’s another opportunity for the youngsters - Never Such Innocence are putting together a poetry collection for Victory in Europe (VE) Day.

The 8th May 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. After nearly six years of war, German forces unconditionally surrendered on 7 May 1945, to finally end the conflict in Europe. Across the Allied world, millions celebrated, relieved that years of conflict and extraordinary hardship were coming to an end. Yet the news provoked mixed emotions for those who had lost loved ones during the war, and for those worried about friends and family still serving (and fighting) overseas. 

Everyone in Britain today has a connection to those who served during the Second World War, either through family or community heritage. In this 80th anniversary year, we remember the struggles that the wartime generation endured.

In addition to the text above, The Royal British Legion has created a wide variety of brilliant educational resources for primary and secondary students HERE which can be really helpful for school projects and to help provide an understanding of WW2. 

Never Such Innocence are inviting young people to write poetry to mark this special anniversary of VE Day. 

All submissions should be made via the links below by Thursday 15th May 2025.
Individuals can send in their poetry HERE.
Schools/Groups can send multiple entries HERE.

The poetry collection will be shared by NSI soon after the closing date.

CSSC Benefits

Are you a Civil Servant? Have you joined the Civil Service Sports Council yet? If you are heading back to the U.K. any time soon, there are so many reasons why this is a good idea and a few if you are shopping online from overseas too…

 

  • FREE annual family entry to English Heritage
  • FREE annual family entry to Cadw
  • UNLIMITED access to Kew Gardens and Wakehurst Wild Botanic Gardens
  • FREE entry to National Trust for Scotland with corporate cards* and discounted entry to Historic Scotland
  • FREE use of our comprehensive exclusive health and wellbeing app - CSSC life.
  • Discounted TOTUM Pro retail card and Fabyouless hair and beauty card.
  • Great value tickets to all the UK’s most popular theme parks and attractions.
  • Huge savings on cinema, gyms, holidays, travel, utilities, insurance, tuition.. and much more.
  • Up to 10% cashback at thousands of online & high street retailers with our mobile savings app.
  • Local events, community groups and volunteering opportunities.
For just £4.99 a month (just 17p a day), not only could save over £1,000 a year but you’ll find the inspiration and motivation to start making some amazing memories with your family.

It’s so easy to join.

→ No contract or minimum terms, just a simple monthly Direct Debit

→ Doesn’t matter if you change employer

→ Reduced rates for retired members

→ Start enjoying benefits in under five minutes

→ Follow us on Facebook & Instagram - To get all the latest offers and activities available.

You can join at: https://cssc.site/MOD

 

 

ONLINE: AFF in partnership with BritLEAD ‘Get Job Ready’ Workshop, Thursday 15th May 2025, 12:00 CET

As a military spouse overseas in Belgium employment is a tricky area but there are lots of things you can do whilst you’re here to keep your hand in, including various volunteer roles within the Brit Community.

AFF and BritLEAD have put together this useful webinar to help you prepare for a return to work in the UK whilst you are still overseas.
 

WHEN: Thursday 15th May 2025, 12:00
WHERE: At SHAPE House or Online
HOW: No need to pre-register, simply join the meeting on the QR code above or the link below.

Join the meeting now
Meeting ID: 358 303 185 638
Passcode: CP2qQ3LS

NHS England: Armed Forces health stakeholder brief - Spring 2025

 

Please click image to enlarge

NHS England’s Spring 2025 Armed Forces health stakeholder brief provides updates on the following topics:

  • Op RESTORE, the NHS England-commissioned physical health and wellbeing service for veterans
  • Op NOVA, the NHS England commissioned support service for veterans in the justice system
  • The NHS Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA) Veteran Aware Annual Conference
  • Step into Health - assisting with the transition from military service to careers within the NHS
  • NHS SARCS: Care and support available to sexual assault and abuse survivors
  • Latest primary care network veteran friendly accreditations

To read the brief in full please click here

Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment - multiple locations

 

The Department of Work and Pensions has 76 new Executive Officer Team Leader opportunities across multiple locations. These are now open for applications until 24 Apr 2025.

Civil Service Jobs link: Operational Delivery - Team Leader - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK (job reference 366699)

There are jobs available at the following locations: Bangor (Gwynedd), Basildon, Bristol, Burnley, Dundee, Glasgow, Hastings, Motherwell, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Preston, St Austell, Stockport, Stockton-on-Tees, Sunderland, Swansea, Wigan, Wrexham

Please note: this vacancy is not on the DWP EO microsite but there is a candidate pack available within the advert content on Civil Service Jobs – see link above. Candidates will be asked to complete two online tests, then if successful complete a 250 word personal statement. If their statement is successful they will then be invited to a live Microsoft Teams interview.

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Crown Commercial Service Senior Project Manager Role, multiple locations - available exclusively to Service Leavers, Veterans and Military Spouses/Partners

 

The following vacancy is now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme, at the Civil Service grade of Band 5 (Grade 7), and a salary range of £56,031 - £62,261:

  • GFIE- 424 - Senior Project Manager - Crown Commercial Service
  • Liverpool / Norwich / Birmingham or Newport
  • Closing Date: Sunday 13th April 2025
  • Job Description
GFiE roles are available specifically to people who served in the Armed Forces, or be in your resettlement period and due to leave the Armed Forces within a reasonable time frame or a Military Spouse/Partner (your current partner must still be serving or was discharged within the last 12 months).

To apply, please submit a completed EOI Form (also see Guidance notes) and an up to date CV to GFIE@cabinetoffice.gov.uk

For more information on the GFiE scheme please go to: A complete guide to GFiE – Veterans, Military Partners/Spouses and Service Leavers – Life Chances – Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) (blog.gov.uk)

Mission Motorsport March & April Newsletter

 

The Mission Motorsport team has continued the fast-paced start to the year, packed with recovery sport and memorable events—and there’s still so much more to come. Check out their latest newsletter to see what they’ve been up to, what’s ahead, and how you can get involved, including:
  • National Transition Event 2025: A Resounding Success at Silverstone
  • Upcoming events: Veterans@Heritage, Prodrive Tour, Bicester Scramble and a tour and Millington Engines
  • Details on how to be a 'Grid Person' for Speedworks at BTCC
  • Volunteering Opportunities:  Get involved in running the Mission Motorsport Scalextric
  • Fundraising: Simon Griffiths completes his ride from RAF Gibraltar to RAF Benson 
  • Other news and information 
To read the newsletter, please click here

Serve & Protect Credit Union: 2025/2026 Cash ISA now launched!

Serve and Protect Credit Union's latest Fixed Cash ISA is here 📢


Secure a guaranteed and tax-free 4% AER return on your savings for the 2025/26 tax year, while supporting the wider community of those who serve and protect.  Here’s how the new Fixed Cash ISA benefits you:

  • Start Small, Save Big: Deposit as little as £5, with contributions up to £20,000 for this tax year.
  • Tax-Free Growth: Enjoy a guaranteed 4% AER return to maximise your savings effortlessly.
  • Peace of Mind: Your savings are protected up to £85,000 by the FSCS (Financial Services Compensation Scheme).
  • Community Impact: Your savings make a meaningful difference by supporting others within the credit union.

Learn more at: https://sandpcu.co.uk/isa-hs-email

BFBS Update - April 2025

 


The BFBS April Update is now available to read on line – please clink this link to view the latest news.

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust latest round of grants: Serving Families - On the Move Programme

 

A further three projects have been awarded bringing the total number to 14 projects worth over £1.25 million! These inclusive projects will improve the quality of life for service families affected by the difficulties and challenges relocation can bring, by implementing support for families not to just adapt but thrive in their new communities - in the latest round of grants from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund.

Tackling the challenges head-on, each of the projects is all about connecting families with local groups, services and activities; helping to build friendships and making sure service families have a community to lean on, so relocation doesn’t have to be such a struggle.

Our CEO Anna Wright says: “This funding in vital in ensuring service families feel supported, connected and empowered as they navigate the challenges of relocation. By having these projects, we’re strengthening communities and hopefully make every move a little easier.”

Connect, build and explore
The first few weeks and months at a new location can make or break a posting. The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (the Trust) have funded Home-Start Norfolk to provide one-to-one practical support to settle families into their new home and provide opportunities for families to meet through baby and toddler groups and planned activities. The project also links with the community hub and HIVE service to provide bespoke resources and information on services to the new families stationed at RAF Marham.

Caroline New, Fund Manager told us:
"We are overjoyed to have been chosen to support Families on the Move through the Armed Forces Covenant Fund and help those serving families to adapt to a new environment and for many, a new area.

We'll compliment this with exciting and engaging groups for families with children under 5 and are fortunate to be able to add accredited infant massage and sleep support into the mix. Last but by no means least, we'll be bringing playful music sessions to families and our dedicated Family Services Co-ordinator will be on hand to help for the next 3 years! We cannot wait to get started"

Creating welcoming spaces
Getting to know an area takes time, but creating support networks that are ready to welcome newcomers from the off can make a huge difference. Serving RAF Honington, Families Together Suffolk’ Little Flyers project gives newly relocated service families a helping hand right from the start. Tackling isolation and limited support networks, the project will make sure families have the right information to get to know their new surroundings, while creating a welcoming space with activities and guidance to help them feel part of the community.

Amanda Allen, Family and Development Manager said:
"We are absolutely thrilled to have received funding through the Armed Forces Covenant Fund for our Little Flyers group at RAF Honington. This support will make a significant difference to the lives of newly relocated Service families, helping them build connections, reduce isolation, and feel part of a welcoming community.

With this funding, we can continue delivering tailored early years activities and wellbeing support that strengthens families and fosters lasting community ties. We’re so grateful to be part of a programme that truly understands the needs of Armed Forces families."

Bonding through music
Listening to families’ needs is vital and can help to shape great activities and services that people, even those newly arrived, want to be a part of. The Make Some Noise Upbeat Families project is working in partnership with Army Welfare Service (AWS) to run weekly creative music sessions at four military bases across the West Midlands. This project is a response to families’ requests for support to make service life easier after relocating. They’ll use music to help parents and children bond, reduce isolation, and give children a strong start by boosting early development through making music together.

CEO, Tim Sharp, shared: "We are really grateful to have the continued support from Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust once again. Their support is enabling this programme to really grow and will support hundreds of families over the next 3 years.

Moving regularly makes it harder for families to develop and maintain family and social networks and frequent relocation can sometimes impact children emotionally and behaviourally. Providing early-intervention support focussing on child development alongside parent/carer support with our pioneering, creative, accessible activities improve everyone’s wellbeing, reduce isolation and loneliness."

Have a project in mind?
Further opportunities are on the way! Later this year, The Trust will be opening applications for the Serving Families: On the Move programme, with some updates and improvements based on previous rounds.

More details will be available on the website soon.

Find out more 
Check out the full list of awards made in this latest round on the Trust website: Projects we've supported : Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust

Are you on the mailing list?
Did you know the Trust have a newsletter dedicated to the AF3 programmes? Get the latest updates and news straight to your inbox Sign up here.


Recruit for Spouses: Free programmes designed to empower and guide you every step of the way

The latest Recruit for Spouses flyer outlines a range of upcoming free employability, industry insights, and financial workshops available to members of the Armed Forces community.


The link to sign up is: RFS Portal



In addition to these workshops, RFS are now accepting applications for two further free programmes offering additional support:

 

  1. Mental Health and Wellbeing Programme

This 6-week virtual programme is available to spouses of serving personnel, veterans, and reserves. It covers a range of topics, including:

  • Managing isolation and anxiety
  • Communication strategies
  • Building support networks

 

  1. Foreign & Commonwealth Programme

This programme provides support to the Foreign and Commonwealth community, helping individuals convert their home nation qualifications to their UK equivalents, alongside tailored employment support.

 

For further information please visit: Recruit for Spouses - Championing Military Spouses for Career Success

 


SHAPE: SHAPE Community Clean Up, Thursday 15th May 2025 09:00 - 15:00

Let’s keep SHAPE looking great! Sign-up to join the SHAPE Community Clean Up.
 


Meet at the Athletic Track, wear some comfy clothes and footwear, bring some gloves if you have them, as well as your refillable water bottle and don’t forget your enthusiasm. A perfect chance to get your daily dose of Vitamin D and make the community sparkle along the way!

Let’s Walk! parkwalk every Saturday, 08:45 for 09:00 start, Rue Vauban

Spring has Sprung, the clocks have leapt forwards and the sunshine has woken up. What better time than now to start with a lovely Saturday morning walk? 

Did you know that every Saturday, there is a fun 5k walk that starts from behind the Conti Mess at 09:00? Why not come along and meet some new faces?

WHEN:  Every Saturday, 08:45 from wha 09:00 start
WHERE: Rue Vauban, behind the Conti Mess
WHO: Open to Everyone.
HOW MUCH: Absolutely FREE

On Saturday 26th April 2025 there is a record breaking attempt for the most parkwalkers walking the parkrun route. 
Simply Register at: https://www.parkrun.org.uk/register/ using a British Address or use Postcode BF1 2AG and bring your Barcode along to be a part of this Record Breaker!

See you there!

SHAPE: Charity Quiz Night, Tuesday 15th April 19:00-21:30

Are you a Quizzy Rascal? Or more an Eddie Quizard? Want to get Quizzical?


Then pop along to the Britbar on Tuesday 15th April for Paul “Rocket” Railton’s Charity Quiz Night!

Bring your Euros to enter the quiz as well as some extra to play some Side Games. 
Britbar open, card purchases as usual.

It’s going to be the quizness!

SHAPE: Rendez-Vous Easter Weekend Opening Hours

 


Monday, 7 April 2025

Aurora New Dawn: Athena Domestic Abuse Awareness & Recovery Programme - 3rd June to 22nd July 2025

Aurora New Dawn’s Athena Domestic Abuse Awareness/Recovery Group is military specific and all online via zoom.  This programme is for 8 weeks taking place on Tuesday evenings 3 Jun to 22 Jul, and is open to serving personnel and families worldwide.
 


Details of how to sign up are on the poster, and to find out more about Aurora New Dawn’s support to the Service community, please go to:  https://www.aurorand.org.uk/armed-forces/  
 
 

SHAPE: SACEUR Sports, Next Date - 15th April 2025

Next Up: Ultimate Frisbee, Tuesday 15th April 2025. Sign-up with Team GB Rep Martyn Williams.


Coming Up:
20th May - 7v7 Soccer
20th June - Racket Sports
26th August - Superstars

SHAPE: Save the Date, Make a Wish 2025 Friday 6th to Saturday 7th June

It’s that time of year again!


The 24 hour Make-A-Wish fun-run is back for its 20th year. Come along and run or walk your way around the running track. Lots of teams looking for participants. If you want to get involved but don’t fancy the activity side of it, there are plenty of volunteer roles available too!

Pre-order your T-Shirts by 21st May 2025 at the SHAPE Gym or on SHAPE2DAY.

Young Carers within Armed Forces Families - Nexus Easter Newsletter

 

Nexus is a three-year project funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Trust. The project aims to improve support, resources and access to services for young carers within armed forces families. 
 
To find out more, and the latest updates, you can read the Easter Newsletter at: https://sway.cloud.microsoft/lf8Y498zQGK5rJt9?ref=Link
 

SHAPE: Charity Bake Sale, Wednesday 16th April 2025 10:00-11:30

Come along to Pop-Up Coffee on Wednesday 16th April, in the Britbar and support our very own Paul “Rocket” Railton in his Marathon quest in support of the Royal British Legion.


Go on, spoil yourself, it is Easter after all! And its all for Charity too.

Veterans Karting Championships with Mission Motorsport

 

Mission Motorsport, the Forces’ Motorsport Charity, supports the recovery and rehabilitation of those affected by military service by offering exciting opportunities in motorsport and the wider automotive industry. It’s all about helping individuals regain confidence, build new skills, and have a great time doing it.


Please see the image for details of all event locations and dates.


Registration is now open for all rounds—you can sign up via the links below or simply use the QR code on the poster.


Here are the event dates and sign-up links:


These events are free to attend and open exclusively to members of the Armed Forces Community. It’s a brilliant opportunity to reconnect, try something new, and experience the buzz of motorsport in a relaxed, welcoming environment.


Events like this happen with amazing support from TeamSport Karting

To see what events Mission Motorsport are running please visit: website.

 

Military vs Cancer Rugby Event - Kingston Park Stadium, Newcastle 21st June 2025

Tackling cancer, one try at a time - Join us for the Military vs Cancer Rugby Event at Kingston Park on 21 June at Kingston Park Stadium, Newcastle.

This Armed Forces Day, be part of an unforgettable event that celebrates courage, community, and the fight against cancer. Watch as the UK Armed Forces Rugby Teams take on the North Select XV in thrilling men’s and women’s matches. This is more than just rugby — it’s a day of unity, remembrance, and support for a vital cause.
 
Honour Your Loved Ones
Make this event even more meaningful by having the name of a loved one featured on the official rugby kit worn by the players. For just £20, you can ensure their name becomes part of this incredible day. With space for 750 names, this is a unique way to celebrate someone special while supporting Military vs Cancer. Names are limited to 20 characters each — so act fast to secure your spot! To add a name to the jersey, include it in the comments when purchasing your reward online via the link or QR code. Let’s fill that kit with love, strength, and remembrance!
 
In Memory of Heroes
This year’s game and kit will honour the memory of Cpl Tim Crossin RM and L/Cpl Nathan Summersgill-Smith RM, two brave individuals who fought valiantly but sadly lost their battles with cancer. Let’s come together to celebrate their legacy and support others in need.
 
What to Expect:
Top-Tier Rugby Action: Witness elite players from the Armed Forces and North Select XV.
Military Displays: marching bands, veterans sweetheart Sarah Dennis, and interactive exhibits.
Family Fun: A day filled with entertainment for all ages.
Community Spirit: Reconnect with friends and support a cause that matters.
 
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event! Tickets are available now via the Newcastle Falcons website - https://www.eticketing.co.uk/newcastle-falcons/EDP/Event/Index/2017?position=5
or the Defence Discount Service for military personnel and veterans - https://www.defencediscountservice.co.uk/offerdetails.php?cid=22774
 
Defending the Try Line, Honouring the Front Line

 

 

Friday, 4 April 2025

SHAPE: Mina’s Wednesday Craft Club for ages 6+, May 2025

A lovely range of craft activities offered by Mina at the Arts and Crafts Centre in May.


Pre-Booking required, email the arts and crafts centre on artandcraft@shapemwb.be to reserve your spot.

SHAPE: Belgian School Fest, Saturday 12th April 2025 11:00-17:00

Don’t miss this fabulous looking event hosted by the Belgian School next Saturday.


SHAPE: April Walking Challenge 1st-30th April 2025

Are you a walker? Like to get out in the fresh air and nature? Then this challenge could be perfect for you.


Why not see how many steps you can fit in between now and the end of April 2025?

Aside from the prize on offer and the kudos from getting in all those steps, walking is brilliant for boosting wellbeing, improving cardiovascular fitness, building stamina, burning excess calories and improving mental alertness.

To help you achieve your walking goal, what not come along to parkwalk on a Saturday morning? Meeting behind the Conti Mess at 0845 for 0900 every week, come and walk the 5k course, make some new friends, boost your steps count and connect with a supportive and friendly community.


See you there!

Headspace: New Ebb Chat Service now available

Army personnel and Army civil servants are eligible to sign up to Headspace for free, and also to extend this free subscription offer to five friends and family.



Please use your @mod.gov.uk, @armymail.mod.uk or @csmail.mod.uk email address to verify your account when prompted.

 

Yorkshire Trench and Dug Out, a little piece of authentic war history



If you are a fan of history, then don’t miss this little gem. The Yorkshire Trench and Dug Out are right there on an industrial estate just north of Ypres. Dating back to 1917, this preserved dug out and trench was accidentally discovered by a farmer in the early 1990’s. 


This is the perfect opportunity to visit an authentic World War One trench and see the footprint of the 1915 shallow trench and shelter at the site. It’s a fabulous way to visualise how these trenches fit into a larger trench system and what life may have been like in the trenches. 

As this is located on an Industrial Estate there are no parking or entry charges to visit the site. It’s a definite must see for those visiting the area.

More information here 

SHAPE: New ATM in the 100 Area

Did you know that a new ATM has arrived on SHAPE?

Located in Building 102, inside the new Carrefour Express unit, adjacent to the Big Scanner. Accessible now!

Civvy Street Magazine – May 2025 Edition now available online

 

SHAPE: SHAPE International Library Family Day & Early Literacy Fair, Thursday 24th April 2025, 13:00-18:00

Celebrate Back to School Week with the SHAPE International Library.


Pop along throughout the afternoon to see what the Library has to offer; guaranteed to be so much more than you think.

I cannot stress enough how lucky we are here to have this Library. If M&S did libraries, it would be the SHAPE International Library. It is the Carlsberg of Libraries; probably the best in the world!

Thursday, 3 April 2025

SHAPE: NEW Bike Entrance at Ottawa Gate to open Monday 7th April 2025

Great News! Monday 7th April 2025 sees the opening of the new Bike entrance at Ottawa Gate.

You will need a special access code to make use of the gate; complete a Form SF550 Annexe A and submit this to Building 102. Once you have the code, you’re good to go!

SHAPE: City of Mons Fleurie 2025, order your spring flowers now

This event will be a gardeners delight! Set your house a-bloom this Spring!


Simply order your flowers by Thursday 10th April 2025 for home delivery or take your planters along on Saturday 26th April 2025 and they will fill them for you.

The price of flowers starts at 1Euro each.

Order forms can be downloaded at www.mons.be and emailed to invitations@ville.mons.be

Another April ‘General Strike’ Date Announced


Please be aware that Belgian major Trade Unions have announced a new general strike on Tuesday 29th April 2025.

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Latest Vacancies in London area (multiple roles/locations) - available exclusively to Service Leavers, Veterans and Military Spouses/Partners

 

The following vacancies are now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme:

GFIE 428 - Work Coach – Dept for Work & Pensions (DWP)

London – 18 vacancies across multiple inner/outer London locations

Closing Date: 28 April 2025


Job Description 

​GFiE roles are available specifically to people who served in the Armed Forces, or be in your resettlement period and due to leave the Armed Forces within a reasonable time frame or a Military Spouse/Partner (your current partner must still be serving or was discharged within the last 12 months).

To apply, please submit a completed EOI Form (also see Guidance notes) and an up to date CV to GFIE@cabinetoffice.gov.uk

For more information on the GFiE scheme please go to: A complete guide to GFiE – Veterans, Military Partners/Spouses and Service Leavers – Life Chances – Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) (blog.gov.uk)

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment - Southern England (multiple locations)

 

The Department of Work and Pensions has 100 new Executive Officer work coach opportunities across Southern England. These are now open for applications until 17 Apr 2025.

 

Civil Service Jobs link:  Universal Credit Job Centre - Work Coach - Southern England (Ref: 729) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

 

There are jobs available at the following locations: Abingdon, Aldershot, Andover, Aylesbury, Banbury, Basingstoke, Bedford, Biggleswade, Borehamwood, Bracknell, Chesham, Didcot, Eastleigh, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, High Wycombe, Hythe, Leighton Buzzard, Letchworth, Luton, Maidenhead, Milton Keynes, Newbury, Oxford, Reading, Salisbury, Slough, Southampton, St Albans, Stevenage, Waltham Cross, Watford, Witney

 

More information on DWP, the roles available and the application process can be found on the DWPEO Microsite.

New Guidance for Schools and Local Authorities on Supporting Service Pupils

 

On 1 April 2025, the Ministry of Defence and Department for Education published non-statutory guidance to help state-funded schools and local authorities in England to understand and address the needs of Service pupils in schools (reception to year 11).

Speaking about the new guidance, Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns DSO OBE MC MP, said:
“Armed Forces families play a vital role in supporting our Service personnel to keep Britain secure at home and strong abroad. Fittingly, this announcement coincides with the Month of the Military Child, which is a time to speak up for our Service children.
“Service children face many challenges due to the unique nature of Service life, but it’s important that they are able to benefit from their exceptional experiences. 
“That’s why this joint guidance with the Department for Education, explains how we can break down barriers and help our Service children to thrive in education.”

Minister for Education, Stephen Morgan MP, said:
“Through our Plan for Change we are focused on breaking the link between young people’s background and their future success.
“Military families make a huge sacrifice for serving this country and their children face unique challenges that can impact their learning from family members being in active warzones, to frequently having to move schools.
“We provide a range of support for service families and their children to help break down the barriers they face. This includes additional funding for schools through the Service Pupil Premium, giving priority to service children in the admissions process and ensuring there is a school place for every service pupil returning to England from overseas bases. To build on this we have published new guidance for schools to help them to provide the targeted support service children need to achieve and thrive.”

What educational needs do Service pupils have?
Life as a Service child has unique challenges, which are not often recognised in wider society and is therefore not always reflected in an educational setting. Service pupils often move schools several times and experience family separation as their Service parent(s) are deployed. It is during these periods that Service children need extra support from local authorities and schools.

How will the new guidance help Service pupils?
This guidance brings together existing guidance into one, easily accessible, place. It outlines the support that schools and local authorities should provide to Service children, and signposts to useful resources. 
This includes new guidance on the Service Pupil Premium, which recently announced more funding for schools to offer pastoral and academic support to eligible Service pupils as they move schools and cope with family separation.
It also encourages local authorities to appoint a Service pupil champion to provide individual support for Service children and outlines their responsibilities and duties. 
This aligns with the Armed Forces Covenant, which is a promise by the nation that the Armed Forces Community should be treated fairly, and not be disadvantaged when accessing public and commercial services, with special provision provided, where appropriate.

Help schools and local authorities to support your child
Please read and share this new guidance with the below:
  • school leaders, school staff, trust leaders, trust boards and governing bodies in all maintained schools, academies, and non-maintained special schools in England
  • local authorities in England
Useful information 
Read the new non-statutory guidance on supporting Service pupils in schools. 


Visit Defence’s new Families Hub, which signposts the support, guidance and organisations that can help to navigate Service family life. The hub includes a section on education and childcare.