In the Budget speech The Chancellor of the Exchequer has confirmed that the government will remove the VAT exemption for private schools from 1 January 2025.
For families claiming the Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA) this is likely to increase private school fees.
To minimise the impact of this change, the Secretary of State has directed that the CEA rate cap will be uprated, to ensure it continues to pay up to 90% of school fees for eligible claimants.
Defence Children Services and Education Advisory Team (UK) have released some new information for Service families. This includes guidance about key dates related to school admissions which are coming up; the first of these is October 31st for families who have a child due to start secondary school in September 2025. There are also leaflets explaining the support available from EAT (UK) and the Overseas Education and Supportability Team (OEST):
Letter for families
Top Tips Information sheet with some FAQ
EAT(UK) leaflet
OEST leaflet
DCS also has a new website with comprehensive information for Service families: www.dcs.school
The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (The Trust) are delighted to announce that the Supporting Partners programme is now accepting applications!
Charities, CICs, Armed Forces units and bases, and universities and colleges are invited to apply for grants of between £10,000 and £60,000 for projects which provide support for partners and spouses of serving personnel to reduce the challenges that Service life can sometimes present.
Proud GCSE students at St John’s School
Mr Richard Sproson (Head Teacher) and Myles at King Richard School (GCSE student)
Defence Children Services (DCS) schools, which support Service children in education and care, are pleased to share the recent exam success of their pupils.
