BELGIUM: Language Centre Courses for Summer and Autumn and Parent-Toddler Classes

 SHAPE Language Centre Summer and Autumn Sessions....

If you fancy learning a new language whilst here at SHAPE, the Language Centre is a great shout. With options of French, Spanish, Italian, German and Russian on the table, you can really widen your horizons!

The Intensive Summer Session for Beginners French is a popular option and a fab introduction or refresher before kicking off the Autumn session.

The GSO Language Fund for British Military Personnel and their Spouses will give you some money back too! What's not to love?

If you have little ones that you would like to introduce to the French Language, then these Parent and Toddlers classes could be just the ticket.

For more information pop into the Language Centre in Building 211 or drop them an email on languagecentre@shapemwb.be

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: On-Board Ticket Sales to be scrapped from Wednesday 1st July 2026

Travelling by Train? No more on‑board ticket sales from Wednesday 1st July 2026.

In a clear measure to tackle fare evasion, starting 1 July 2026, SNCB-NMBS will phase out on-board ticket sales via the train manager. This decision aims to reinforce a key rule: every passenger must have a valid ticket before boarding the train (and be able to show it during ticket inspection).

On‑board ticket sales frequently led to disagreements, and at times even aggression, during inspections. Eliminating this source of conflict helps SNCB-NMBS make the rules clearer and better protect its employees.

This shift lets train managers refocus on what matters most: ensure safety, guide passengers and provide the right assistance throughout their trip.

Find out more here.


Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: The Extended Low-emissions zone fines in Brussels have been postposed again

Extended low-emissions (LEZ) fines in Brussels postponed yet again...

Since 1 January, Euro 5 diesel and Euro 2 petrol vehicles have been banned from Brussels.

The new government is drawing up a LEZ framework that is due to come into force from 2027. This is based on three pillars - an annual pass costing €350, a social tariff of €200 for low earners and a monthly fine of €80. Brussels is taking its cue from the LEZ models in Ghent and Antwerp. There is support for the proposal to introduce the annual pass at €350 from next week, but there is still no agreement on which vulnerable groups should be excluded from paying.

The question now is what the new transitional phase will look like. There is a possible transitional period between 1 April and the end of the year, but consensus is yet to be reached on the details.

A proposal whereby owners of the affected vehicles will not pay a fine from 1 April, but will instead pay a one-off sum of €350 to be able to drive around Brussels without worry for the rest of the year, has been put forward. The governing parties are more or less in agreement on that principle.

In the meantime, De Smedt indicated that no fines will be issued until a legal framework is in place. Its implementation will be preceded by an awareness campaign.

Check also this page for updates.

Q&A:

A fine – in which cases?
Any vehicle owner or driver of a vehicle driving in the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) without meeting access conditions can receive a fine in the following cases:The non-compliant vehicle does not have a valid day pass for the day it rides into Brussels.The non-compliant vehicle does not have a valid exemption.The foreign vehicle is not registered, even if it complies with the LEZ standards.

Important: only one fine can be issued per vehicle every three months—up to 4 fines per year.

How much is the fine?

• €350 For a non-compliant vehicle entering the LEZ without a valid day pass or exemption.
• €150 For a foreign vehicle (even compliant) that is not registered.
• €25 For providing incorrect information when registering a vehicle.

Find out more here.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: SACEURS Cup Cross Country Team need support, Tuesday 21st April 2026

We are now getting ready for the next event in the SACEURS SPORTS Calendar which will be Cross Country.

We are looking for all those that are willing and able to participate so that we can get ourselves up in the Rankings for the Competition.

This is a great opportunity to get yourselves out of the office and get some fresh air for the morning. Timings will be confirmed but looking at a morning start of around 09:30 as usual.

Interested? Please get in touch with Anthony or Tammy on Anthony.holt200@mod.gov.uk or tammypatt@yahoo.co.uk

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

Brunssum: Sittard walking tour dates for 2026

Join us for a walking tour through Sittard. You'll be introduced to the local farmers market, stores, beautiful churches and the historic old town.

Click here to view a larger version of the above poster.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: Polish Coffee and Culture Evening 21st April

 

Once upon a time…
Join us for a unique evening dedicated to Polish culture, traditions and atmosphere. An opportunity to come together and enjoy an authentic and welcoming experience within our international community.

For more information and registration, please click here.

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) New Vacancies: DWP Work Coach - Bristol, Brighton, Slough - Closing Date for applications: 30 April 2026

The following vacancy is now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme:

GFIE- 483 – DWP Work Coach

Bristol, Brighton and Slough

Closing Date: 30 Apr 26

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).

All roles offer a supportive environment, development opportunities, and a buddy to help you navigate the Civil Service.

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)

BRUNEI: BFB Social Calendar 2026

Please click the image to enlarge.

The aim of the Social Calendar is to allow garrison personnel and their families to view all social events and activities taking place. 

It is also an area where you can advertise an event that you are planning such as a Patio Sale, Bingo evening, Coffee mornings etc. To have an event added to the Calendar it must:

• Be for the BFB Community.

• Include NO military information.

Click HERE to view the annual calendar. Here you can click on each event to take you to the blog post, where you will find more information regarding the event.

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

BRUNEI: AWS Community Support Activities - What's On in BFB...

AWS CS Monthly Calendar

Parents and Toddlers Sessions & Youth Clubs Closed

Senior Club - Temporarily Closed

Due to non-attendance, the AWS-CS senior club for the school year 7-8 is temporarily closed until further notice.

BRUNEI: AWS Community Support - BFB Local Handmade & Food Stall Bazaar Friday 24th April 2026, 1400 - 1700 hrs @ Chit Chat Community Centre

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.