Support for parents in HM armed forces

Service families moving around the U.K. often find themselves in confusing situations because different arrangements for education are in place across England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

These differences may relate to:

  • different ages for moving between phases of education;
  • different examination and assessment systems;
  • a different curriculum;
  • different admission systems;
  • different statutory approaches to meeting children’s special educational / additional support needs;
  • different routes into higher education with different funding arrangements.

To avoid problems for families that could arise from these differences, there is a forum called the Service Children’s Education Forum (SCEF).  SCEF provides schools and educational support for children of the UK Armed Forces, Ministry of Defence Personnel and MOD sponsored organisations stationed overseas.

Parents serving in HM Armed Forces can also access the Children’s Education Advisory Service (CEAS) which is an information, advice and support service established specifically for Service parents. It covers all issues relating to their children's education, including Special Educational Needs (SEN). More information about CEAS can be found on their website here.

In Stoke on Trent, The Admissions Team supports children, families and schools in relation to applications for school places.  If you are a Service family with a query, please contact the Admissions Team on 01782 234598 or email admissions@stoke.gov.uk.

Parents serving within the Armed Forces can also contact SENDIASS which is an information, advice and support service within Stoke on Trent.

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