Education for the Military - Winter Edition 2013 by Education for the Military Ltd

It’s about ability not disabilities

www.educationforthemilitaryfamily.org.uk

WINTER EDITION

Inside MOD: Support for all aspects of education DofE: Taking part in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award NURSERY: Successful transition within Early Years

An independent day school for ages 3 to 18 Outstanding academic results Traditional education built on Christian values Small class sizes and tuition groups

Academic, Art, Music, Drama and Sport Scholarships available for entry to Year 7 (11+), Year 9 (13+) and Sixth Form

Specialist subject teaching from an early age Broad curriculum including sport, music, dance, drama and modern languages Excellent pastoral care Before and after school clubs and holiday activities

50% bursaries for Armed Forces families and children of civilian personnel employed by the Armed Forces Substantial choral scholarships available for boy and girl choristers

Contact Lesley Bannister today for more information or to arrange a personal tour on 01543 306168 or lesley.bannister@lichfieldcathedralschool.com The Palace, The Close, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 7LH

www.lichfieldcathedralschool.com

CONTENTS:

Features:

06. MOD 08. CONTINUITY OF EDUCATION 10. NURSERY 11. BOARDING SCHOOLS 22. COMBINED CADET FORCE 25. SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS 26. SEN (DYSLEXYIA)

28. UNIVERSITIES 34. ADULT EDUCATION 38. FOSTERING & ADOPTION 44. DofE 54. TRI SERVICES Published & Designed by © Publishing Magazines Ltd Images Supplied by – Shutterstock / Getty Images

Contact Us – sales@publishingmagazinesltd.com studio@publishingmagazinesltd.com Twitter - @educationmat Website - www.educationforthemilitaryfamily.org.uk

With thanks to – MOD, Childrens Advisory Service, Hollybank School, DofE, Worksop College, The Royal Hospital School & all advertisers.

© Publishing Magazines Ltd 2013. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher and although every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate, the publishers take no responsibility for errors and omissions. No responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for any claims made by the advertisers in this publication.

www.publishingmagazinesltd.co.uk

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PPTutor-Online:

You Could Become a Professional Photographer - Online

oday, virtually everyone who has a mobile phone is a photographer; you take pictures of your family, your pets, your holidays, but you could become a well-paid professional photographer through our Online Courses. We at PPtutor have been providing online courses for more than 10 years, starting with the basic NVQ Level 3, for both military personnel and ‘civvies’. Take Chris Cummins, for example: as an RAF SAC Field Medic, she decided on ‘demob’ to use some of her ELCAS funding to take our NVQ course in Photography. Her husband David, still an RAF pilot, had been posted to Las Vegas to work with the US Air Force, so Chris completed our course online from Nevada,

immediately afterwards getting a job with a portrait studio over there on the basis of her qualification. The family was recently posted back to Lincolnshire, where Chris decided to extend her understanding of photography by signing up for our online Higher Professional Diploma in Photography, fitting her to become a self-employed photographer, once again using her ELCAS funding. Or Steve Godwin, ex-Sgt tank commander, now qualified up to NVQ4 level thanks to PPTutor-Online and ELCAS, shooting portraits and wedding pictures and sharing a Wiltshire studio with another established photographer. Steve is extending his photography to include

equestrian work for magazines, reinforcing his income while enjoying taking pictures of subjects he has an interest in. These, and many other ex-military and civilian personnel have found that they can transfer an enjoyable hobby into a part-time or fulltime job, providing income and personal satisfaction. Imagine you doing that! You can, through PPtutor-Online. We are the only organisation in UK providing courses up to those recognised qualifications, totally online. You can start with an NVQ Level 3, or, with some previous understanding of photography, go straight into the Level 4 version. We’re ELCAS approved, and our studio base is a City & Guilds Recognised Centre. All of our Tutors are educationally Qualified to Assess and are professional photographers themselves.

Please go to our website:

www.pptutor-online.com

for more information and to enrol. We look forward to helping you achieve your ambitions.

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Ministry of Defence: them into local state schools where children are taught in English, into a state school where the native language is spoken and where a child will be supported to learn that language, or at an international school. Parents who decide that sending their children to boarding school is the best way to provide stability of education should be aware that the costs of boarding schools across the UK can vary greatly, and the school fees only make up part of the overall costs so it is important to gain a clear understanding of the whole costs which the school may charge.

MOD support for all aspects of the education of Service children

he Directorate Children and Young People (DCYP) is the Ministry of Defence (MOD)’s focal point for all matters relating to children and young people who belong to the Armed Forces (AF) community, at home and overseas.

children and young people to benefit from their residence abroad. Moving Schools

Service life for many families means they may need to move frequently, which often means The Children’s Education Advisory moving their children to a new school. Curriculum and term Service (CEAS) is part of DCYP and provides information, advice times differ once you cross the and support about all aspects of country borders in the UK and the education of Service children CEAS provides information about specific queries relating to those in the UK and overseas. differences. On 1 April 2013 Service Children’s Service families with children Education (SCE) became part of DCYP. Previously an MOD Agency, who are in their ‘A Level’ years or undertaking or preparing for SCE provides a first class system GCSE or AS exams may be able of schools and educational support services to the children to stay in the Service Families Accommodation which they of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces, currently occupy, to allow the MOD Personnel and sponsored organisations stationed overseas; child to complete their exams. from Foundation Stage through Families in this situation are advised to contact their housing to sixth form, supporting provider to discuss the possibility overseas accompanied Service

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The Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA) is to help eligible Service personnel provide continuity of education for their children and enable the non-serving spouses of Service personnel to accompany them on postings. Parents should contact their Unit pay office to check their eligibility if they wish to claim this allowance and should note that they are expected to contribute a minimum of 10% towards boarding school fees

The allowance is available from the academic year in which a child reaches the age of 8 (Year 3 in England). There is a junior and of extending their occupancy senior CEA and which allowance and to contact CEAS for further you are eligible for depends on advice and information. the fee structure of the school you choose. The junior and senior Parents of Service children who rates are not related to a parent’s are due to undertake important examinations such as GCSEs need Service rank. to think carefully about whether Service parents whose children to remove the child from school to accompany them to a posting have Special Educational Needs (SEN) and who are eligible to overseas, and are advised to do claim CEA may also be entitled so only if they have access to to the Special Educational Needs a UK curriculum so that their Addition (SENA) which is an education will not be disrupted in the two years leading to those allowance in addition to CEA. Its purpose is to assist where there examinations. is a need for a child to receive extra tuition in English and/or The type and standard of mathematics for a specific period children’s education in Isolated in an independent boarding Detachments (ISODETS) and school. Extra Command Areas where there are no SCE schools, varies between countries, and sometimes between different parts the same country. Service parents who are accompanied by their children when posted to such areas may decide to enrol

Service personnel can find out more about CEA by contacting the CEAS helpline: 01980 618244.

MOD - EYFS / Nursery Education: Early Years Foundation Stages (EYFS)

YFS is delivered by various organisations and providers throughout Germany and in Rest of World (ROW) locations. In Germany the EYFS provision for children aged 0-3 is delivered in non school-based settings where the workforce largely consists of dependants or spouses of AF, MOD personnel or civilian contractors. On the 1st April 2013 the resources to deliver 0-3 transferred from the Army Welfare Service to SCE, including Garrison based child minding co-ordinators, to support the ongoing registration of childminders delivering the EYFS in home based settings. Funded EYFS pre-school sessions in areas where there are SCE schools, for children aged 3-5 (from the term after their third birthday), are led and managed by a qualified teacher, supported by dependant staff. In Germany some schools offer non-funded afternoon sessions for rising three year olds, this is called Extended Day Care, but this facility may be limited for various reasons such as recruitment challenges and the restricted employment pool. Registered childminders are supported by SCE childminding co-ordinators, with initial

registration training and where appropriate, on-going professional development. In Cyprus there are four crèche facilities which are committeerun. AF personnel, their dependants and dependants of serving personnel make up the work force. This provides some measure of continuity and staff retention. Training is supported from local SCE schools and the Early Years Development Team based in Germany. In Cyprus and Naples the EYFS for children aged 3-5 is delivered in school-based settings. Pre-school sessions are led and managed by a qualified teacher who is supported by dependant staff. The same EYFS provision is made for children aged 3-5 in the Falklands, also children aged between 2 and 3 there are permitted to stay and play in the Early Years setting with their parent. In addition to continuous EYFS provision for children aged 3-5, SCE are committed to providing at least one full-time all year nursery for children aged 0-3 in each Garrison, to ensure that parents who are lone/dual serving AF personnel, working MOD personnel or contractors have access to good quality Early Years Care and Education.

Higher Education Overseas: SCE Provides Specialist Advice

CE has a number of specialist personnel who can give advice and guidance on issues surrounding higher education for young people in AF communities overseas. As a matter of principle, access to higher or further education or other ‘progression’ opportunities such as employment or work-based training should not be restricted at all for young people based overseas as a consequence of their parents’ military service. In practical terms, however, there are certain factors which young people and their parents should take into consideration as a consequence of the context of being geographically overseas from the UK. Geographically speaking, the experience of going to university, college or training placement which most, but not all, young people do in their usual country of residence is different if a young person from an MOD family is based in, say, Germany or Cyprus. Within the European Union there are no technical restrictions on, say, a young person of British origin applying to a German, Cypriot or even a Dutch, Austrian or

Italian University – but the language of teaching would obviously be a determinate factor. However, it should be noted that many universities in Europe and world-wide teach in English even if English is not the national language of that country. There have, however, been some instances of young people from a Foreign or Commonwealth Origin (FCO) encountering nationality and visa difficulties within the European Union including the UK. The situation regarding progression opportunities in each of the home nations of FCO personnel varies hugely from each other and from that in the UK. The process of applying to university in whichever country can be complex and certainly varies significantly from country to country. There are also complexities around funding for higher education which again varies from country to country. Young people and their parents are advised to seek help and support by contacting www. sceschools.com, who will forward their enquiry to the relevant subject matter experts.

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MOD - Continuity of Education:

he MOD £3 Million Fund which is available each year, over a period of 4 years, was announced in the Armed Forces Covenant in May 2011. This is different to the Pupil Premium which is funded by the Department for Education for state schools with Service children in England. The purpose of the MOD £3 Million Fund is to assist publicly funded schools, Academies and Free Schools mitigate the effect of exceptional mobility and/or deployment of the Regular Armed Forces or Reserve Forces Communities whose children they support. The fund is managed by DCYP and is available for schools throughout the UK as long as they can provide evidence that they are being affected by either exceptional mobility and/or deployment. After each bidding round closes, judging panels, consisting of various stakeholders and an independent member scrutinise the bids, looking for clear and explicit evidence to illustrate:

MOD assistance to schools with Service children in the UK MOD £3 Million Support Fund for State Schools with Service Children > Realistic proposals regarding how the project would to be sustained after the grant has been awarded;

> How the school is being affected by mobility and/or deployment;

> What positive impact a grant would have on the whole school. For example if a laptop were purchased to > The level of communication help children communicate established by the school with with their deployed parents, it the Service community; other could also be used by civilian schools and organisations in children to keep in touch with preparing the bid; their Service friends who may have moved school. > How a grant would mitigate negative aspects of mobility Collaborative bids which and deployment and what a identify wider reaching ‘successful outcome’ (should benefits for schools with their bid receive funding) similar needs are particularly would look like; welcomed as these often provide a value for money > How that success could be solution and help to enhance measured; networks of self support.

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Deployment of Service personnel does not necessarily need to be to a conflict zone for a school to be eligible to apply for a grant. For example submariners/sailors may be away at sea for a number of months and schools may find that during this time Service pupils may need more support and reassurance. During the 2012 bidding round, schools which submitted successful bids in line with the required criteria, have been able to pump prime a wide variety of projects after receiving grants under this initiative. These projects include engaging a fixed term ‘home

link teacher ‘ to support several schools, plugging a funding gap brought about by the temporary drop in Service pupil numbers, and supporting a counselling service available to 20 schools. More information about the next and final MOD £3 Million bidding round, which will be announced in the autumn, can be found on the DCYP GOV.UK website. DCYP continues to work with partners within the MOD, Other Government Departments and various charities with the aim of supporting Service children and young people

St George’s School:

St George’s School Harpenden Academy Trust

ounded in 1907 as one of the country’s first co-educational boarding schools, we are proud to be St George’s School, Harpenden. We are a ‘state boarding school’ which essentially means you pay for the boarding and the government pays for the education in this non-denominational co-educational, non-selective Christian Foundation Academy. The school values each pupil as an individual and has a tradition of excellence and success in all aspects of its community life. Strong links with the Armed Forces and experience of boarders who live overseas means St George’s provides an excellent learning environment where young people are caring and supportive of each other, where the individual is encouraged to flourish. Visitors to the school are inspired by the warm welcoming atmosphere which embodies the school’s motto: Aim Higher, which is carved in stone above the original entrance to the school. At St George’s there is a real sense of purpose. Learning is not just valued and respected, it is enjoyed.

our international links. We believe there is something for everyone. To board students must be EU Nationals or hold British passports or have right to residency in the UK. Boarding Fees are £3,550 per term (September 2014). The Continuity of Education Allowance could enable your child to have the boarding experience and continue to benefit from an exemplary state school education which combines traditional values and inspiring teaching.

Students also benefit from a huge range of social, extra-curricular and cultural opportunities in Music, Sport, Literature, Army Cadets, Languages, History, Art, Technology, Mathematics, Science and

I look forward to meeting you very soon. Miss Nicki Hooker, Director of Boarding.

Tel: 01582 716230 Email: boardingadmissions@ stgeorges.herts.sch.uk . Website: www.stgeorges.herts.sch.uk

STGEORGE’S SCHOOL

HARPENDEN- HERTFORDSHIRE D S AN Y O B R NGFO I D R BOA

St George’s is consistently in the top 5% of schools nationally for academic performance, with student achievement and progress being the envy of many independent schools. Based in this idyllic, semi-rural setting we are just 30 minutes by train from central London and close to London airports. Founded on living our lives through Christian principles, the two main boarding houses, Keswick and Crosthwaite, currently house 130 boarders in Years 7 - 13 between them. Boarders come principally from the UK with a good number from all over the world enriching the diversity of our school community.

To appreciate St George’s fully you need to experience the place first hand and I therefore invite, and encourage, you to visit our school.

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For moreinformation pleaseseeour website:

www.stgeorges.herts.sch.uk ENQUIRE NOWABOUT ENTRY IN SEPTEMBER 2014 For a p p l ic a t ion f orms a nd f urt he r inf orma t ion PLEASE EMAIL boa rdinga dmis s ions @s t ge orge s .he rt s .s c h.uk OR CALL 01582 716256 TERMLY FEES currently £3,5 5 0 OVER 100 YEARS WELCOMING SERVICE FAMILIES

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Nursery:

s adults most of us have experienced familiar feelings when thinking about change. Feelings of anticipation and excitement may sometimes be slightly over shadowed by feelings of uncertainty or nervousness, as we find ourselves with unfamiliar people in unfamiliar surroundings. It takes time to settle, feel comfortable and develop a sense of belonging. As adults we try and take this in our stride. What a difference it makes if we know where we are going and that we have a sense of control over what happens to us when we arrive. Very often young children don’t have this sense of control. If they are not prepared for a transition from one place to another or given time to become used to the idea that their parent or carer will leave them in unfamiliar surroundings with unfamiliar people and routines then they may feel insecure and anxious. Where those transitions are well planned and managed then the emotions and worries experienced by both yourself and your child will be successfully and positively addressed. Smooth transitions into, within and between settings and schools is of critical importance for all young children, no matter what their age, in order to ensure that every child, continues to learn and develop in an uninterrupted way and that their feeling of safety and well-being is ensured. What do we mean by transitions? These may be over the course of the day, when you leave your child in the morning or collect them from the setting later on, or when they move between rooms in day care or enter the setting or start school for the very first time. Early Years practitioners that work in really good settings know how important it is to support children appropriately at times of transition. Practitioners also know that in order to make sure that transitions are as good as they possibly can be it is crucial that they work together with yourselves, because as parents you are the people that know your children better than anyone else. You are your child’s first and most important educator. Good communication and information sharing, between yourselves and your child’s previous and new

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Successful transition within Early Years: Ensuring your child’s continued well-being, learning and development setting can be key to ensuring that their transition is tailored to meet their individual and very unique needs Make sure that you share as much detailed information as possible about your child. This may include: their likes and dislikes, favourite foods, toys, activities, stories and songs and names and relationships of family members. It is also very important to talk about any particular needs that your child has or support that they may be receiving from other professionals. By sharing assessment records and Learning Journeys from previous settings, your child’s learning and development will be supported effectively from day one. This may also include information contained in the Two Year Check. If you are returning from a posting abroad or in another part of the country, it would be helpful to notify your child’s current setting in good time so that they can prepare a pack of information for you to bring with

you. By getting to know you and your child really well their Key Person will be able to make sure that the care and provision that is planned for your child will be exactly right and in keeping with his or her needs and interests. When choosing the setting you may find it useful to ask for a copy of the Transition Policy. This will outline what arrangements the setting makes to settle your child. It is a statutory expectation within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) that a named Key Person will be identified before your child begins at the setting. That person will have particular responsibility for the care and on-going development of your child and will be instrumental in working with you to help your child settle successfully and to bond with him or her to provide the emotional security that young children need. . It is important that you have had the opportunity to meet with them

prior to your child’s first day. In fact ideally, a number of transition visits will have been planned so that both you and your child will become extremely familiar with the setting and staff over a period of time. Once you know that your child is happy, you may decide to gradually withdraw to a distance or spend a little time away from the setting. As your child settles they will gradually become very familiar with their Key Person. The attachment that they develop will help them settle and feel secure. Once your child feels happy and safe, then they will be ready to engage with their environment, make new friends, play, learn and flourish. If you would like any further information about the range of Early Years provision across North Yorkshire please contact your nearest Children’s Centre. Details can be found on the internet.

Boarding Schools:

Key factors to consider when choosing a school Sue Powell was a Senior Army Welfare Worker and served in the forces for 24 years. After she retired, she worked for four years as a Station Welfare Officer before moving to Worksop College to be a House Mistress in one the College’s very successful boarding houses

orksop College is a coeducational day and boarding school set in 330 acres of rural North Nottinghamshire, which abuts Clumber Park. With both her husband and son also working in the Independent Boarding School sector and with experience of managing boarding houses, Sue’s understanding of the needs of forces’ families is second-tonone. Here Sue tells her thoughts on the key factors that parents need to consider when choosing a school for their child and offers a checklist of five top tips. “The first thing parents want to know is that their child will be safe, well cared for and happy and so parents must have a point of contact who they trust and who they can get in touch with at any time. House Mistresses and Masters are central to ensuring that this is the case. “Communication is vital and parents mustn’t feel that they can’t ring House Parents as and when they need to: I take calls at any time and parents will often say ‘but I can’t call you again as we’ve spoken so many times today already’ but the truth is they can – and they do – which is exactly how it should be and how I want it to be. I need to be the carer and the disciplinarian and everything in-between so parents must trust me in that role which is why we work together as a partnership, to ensure that our care of that child encompasses and is the bridge between home and school life. “In addition to the usual pressures, forces parents can be away for considerable lengths of time, often with

little notice and minimal opportunity for contact with their children and school. In these circumstances, the knowledge that your child is in a safe, happy and fulfilling environment, under the guidance of someone who you have full confidence in, is priceless. “I would also recommend taking the time to really look at the atmosphere of what goes on within the schools you are considering. If we take the provision of academic excellence as a minimum expectation, the decision about where to send a child to school, isn’t just about bricks and mortar: it’s about the relationships amongst the pupils and also amongst the staff. Try to take time to look at these as a way to understanding what the school community is like and whether it will suit your child. “For example, Worksop College is a small school of around 400 pupils, where every child is known by name and expected to contribute to the school community. Every child working to their best academically in a supported approach is non-negotiable. Around that, there’s an extensive extracurricular programme with activities ranging from a wide range of sports and outdoor pursuits to philosophy clubs and trips to art galleries. The House system at Worksop also brings with it a range of activities including House Drama and the annual House Singing competition. It’s important you get a feel for this before making your decision as it will be the whole school experience that ensures your child has a fulfilling life at boarding school and more importantly a feeling of belonging.”

Sue Powell - House Mistress at Worksop College

Top 5 questions to ask yourself: 1. Will my child feel safe, happy and secure? Do I think they will feel like they belong there? Don’t be afraid to ask for a taster experience for your child. 2. Is the Pastoral Care system firmly established? What is their understanding and experience of working with forces families and the unique pressures this brings? 3. Do I trust this school to take the decisions that I myself would need to take? Talk to the House Parent as much as you need to: this is the welfare of your child and they will not mind the scrutiny – they should welcome it 4. Is the care provided holistic? Do they consider the whole child, academically and through extracurricular activity? What else does this school offer that will ensure a fulfilling experience for my child? 5. Communication is the key to building the successful partnership that’s needed: can I talk to the people who care for my child as often and whenever I like?

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Tettenhall College:

A Home from Home... We have probably all heard the expression ‘a home from home’ and a true understanding of what this actually means is vital when it comes to children and young people who attend school as boarders.

or pupils who board, school is also their home for many weeks of the year and Tettenhall College therefore ensures that the correct balance is maintained between study, recreational activities, hobbies and free time. Housemasters and housemistresses have a pivotal role to play in this and the following is an extract from the annual boarding report produced at Tettenhall College demonstrating that this balance is without doubt achieved. The priority of the boarders is to achieve academic success. This has been clearly evident throughout the year with a large number performing extremely well in A level and GCSE examinations and upper sixth students receiving offers for courses at the UK’s top universities. The boarders appreciate the opportunities to have fun, make new friends and increase their cultural experiences that the weekend outings provide. Over the year these have included; premiership rugby matches, visits to restaurants,

theme parks, castles, museums, city tours, go karting, paintballing, shopping and a trip to the seaside. This is of course in addition to the full range of extra-curricular activities that take place throughout the week at the end of school, including sport, music, drama, academic societies and enterprise initiatives. Christmas celebrations include the Santa Run, a trip to the pantomime and a superb formal meal, thanks to the school catering team. Boarders also celebrate Chinese New Year in style with a trip to China Town in Manchester as well as setting free their own lanterns over our very own woodlands. Boarders also take part in the annual Dragon Boat race at Himley Park. Last year, glorious weather and the opportunity to raise funds for the Rotary Club and the children’s charity Promise Dreams, contributed to a wonderful day for our team. The icing on the cake was victory in the schools section and 7th place overall (a magnificent achievement considering

the pupils were competing against adults in this section.) The first international food festival where boarders from different cultures cooked some of their traditional dishes for others to try also took place last year. This year’s festival was another success with dishes such as Russian Chicken Soup and Chicken Chilli Curry on the menu. Staff and pupils were happily filled by this tasty food from the very talented chefs. As our boarding opportunities grow so do the boarders’ cultural experiences. The introduction of a Wednesday evening chapel service has seen the boarders lead some fascinating meetings. Pupils have performed musically, sung traditional songs and spoken about their religions and countries. It has been an education for both pupils and staff as we continue to develop and learn about each other’s cultures whilst ensuring that Tettenhall College is still their ‘home from home’. Tettenhall College is an independent coeducational day and boarding school offering education for pupils between 2 and 18 years of age. Open Days are available throughout the year for families to view the school. Alternatively, if you are unable to join us for an Open Day then personal tours of the school can be arranged to suit. For further information please contact Annabelle Addison in our Admissions Office on 01902 751119 or email aa@tettcoll.co.uk.

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Open Mornings Sat u rday 5 t h OctOb er | Fr iday 7 t h Mar ch | MOnday 5 t h M ay 9.3 0 a M - 1 2 .3 0 p M

Day and boarding school for girls aged 11 - 18

Scholarships and Bursaries Available

Senior and Sixth Form

To register your interest or arrange an appointment:

T 01749 814400 E admissions@brutonschool.co.uk

W W W. B R U T O N S C H O O L . C O . U K SUNNY HILL

•

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•

SOMERSET

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The Royal Masonic School for Girls:

Boarding tailored to fit family’s individual requirements comfortable boarding houses and 150 acres of prime Hertfordshire parkland are all part of this environment that 150 boarders call home.

one are the days of draughty dormitories, cold baths and thin gruel. Boarding schools like The Royal Masonic School for Girls (RMS) now offer a wealth of facilities, a home away from home where girls can enjoy a combination of study, fun and relaxation amongst friends. And no longer does one size need to fit all - boarding can be tailored to fit an individual family’s individual requirements. It can be for one, two or three nights a week, it can be Monday to Friday, or it can be termly.

RMS provides boarders with a varied range of experiences within a structured framework, so that girls learn to be responsible for themselves and their learning. Boarders are encouraged to develop good patterns of self-study and this is balanced by many opportunities for extracurricular activity to cater for the interests of different girls of all ages.

The boarding houses are not an extension of school, and house staff are there to create a homely, supportive atmosphere where girls can express themselves fully and feel at ease. For full boarders, a wealth of weekend activities is on offer, dependent on age. Trips to museums, the theatre and cinema, theme parks and bowling feature regularly on the calendar, and there is also plenty of time to relax and make the most of what is available closer to home. But not every moment is action-packed, and relaxation at the weekend is important too.

The experience of boarding is enormously beneficial to girls and an excellent preparation Girls are cared for by a dedicated team of House for life beyond school. Girls learn to accept each staff, supported by Gap year students from other and to live amicably, appreciating that Australia and New Zealand. Highly trained one doesn’t always get one’s way and that it is medical staff, a resident School Chaplain, a important to be considerate to others. School counsellor, a Head of House and “pupil Ideally located just a mile from the M25 and in mentors” all ensure that there is a caring easy reach of all London airports, RMS boasts a For more information about boarding at RMS, adult with whom to share the events of each location and facilities few schools could dream Educ Militarysports Nov 13 - 180x124 - Oct 2013_Educ Military Novis13 - 180x124 - Oct 2013 08/10/2013 Page 1 day. Our aim to create a happy and secure visit12:21 www.royalmasonic.herts.sch.uk or call of. A modern complex, swimming pool, 01923 773168 outstanding visual and performing arts facilities, environment for boarders of all ages.

Sleepover?

One night, two nights................................................or every night.

Flexibility guaranteed - from just £45 per night. - full, weekly and flexi-boarding for girls aged 7-18 years - excellent accommodation and a wide range of extra-curricular activities - 10% discount for HM Forces’ families - less than 60 minutes from all major London airports - one mile from the M25 and 30 minutes by underground from Central London * Ofsted Boarding Inspection Report, 2011 - awarded ‘outstanding’

+44 (0)1923 725354 www.royalmasonic.herts.sch.uk

The Royal Masonic School for Girls Rickmansworth Hertfordshire WD3 4HF Registered Charity No. 276784

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Boarding Schools:

Why Queenswood? Queenswood has around 500 girls, aged 11 to 18 of whom more than half board

he school was established in 1894 in Clapham moving to its present beautiful site of 120 acres in 1925. Most of our girls are from the UK but we have girls from over 20 different countries, from all the continents in the world. Overseas girls make up around 20% of the school. Queenswood is very well situated for military families, having easy access to major ports and airports. Heathrow, Stansted and Luton are all less than an hour way. We are well placed for reaching NATO headquarters and Germany and convenient for London, Northwood and postings in the South East. There are generous bursaries available for military families. As a boarding community, education here is not just about being in a classroom and studying. It is not even just about learning and having a wide choice of co-curricular activities. Queenswood is a real family, where we all know one another and care about one another. We are aiming to prepare the girl’s life’s challenges, as well as ensuring that they achieve the best grades. A Queenswoodian is an all-rounder, and organiser a leader, a superb contributor to

house – all qualities which will equip her so well for adult life. We think about what sort of world we need to prepare the girls for. We are part of a global community and we are committed to promoting international, cultural and political understanding. As women they will have busy lives and will have to cope with a rapidly changing and exciting world. Our girls will need resilience; they will need to be flexible, independent thinkers who will be able to adapt quickly and assimilate change positively. We want to help them to become open minded, secure and courageous. We need to help them to realise the importance of being physical healthy, taking risks, embracing adventure and enjoying leisure. Most of all, however we need to recognise the individuality of each girl and make sure she knows that we value her. We do this through excellent pastoral care and through the relationships which we forge with girls and their parents. There is something about the Queenswood environment which enables a girl to enjoy her childhood while growing into an independent young woman. We are fortunate in having inspirational and generous teachers who work alongside the girls to encourage resourcefulness and teamwork, breadth of knowledge and skills confidence and conviction in their questioning, and enjoyment of learning.

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We carefully track each girl’s personal development and academic progress, and we concentrated very much on self-esteem, which we believe comes from a sense of achievement. We believe that every girl has a multitude of talents, and we strive to give all girls the chance to discover their passion. Our girls excel in many fields: academic study, Art, Drama, Music, PE, Tennis. We encourage girls to try new things and to pursue their interests in the classroom and beyond. Music is exceptional at Queenswood, with a great diversity of styles, from rock bands to classical chamber groups. We have close connections with the Junior Academy. We run diverse master classes and competitions during the year. There are terrific opportunities for those whose passion is Drama or Dance. We have a wonderful theatre and Dance Studio. In Sport, we have quite a few girls who represent England –in hockey, rounders, high jump and tennis to name a few. But all girls, of whatever ability, benefit from a rich programme of sport and are learning the importance of physical activity.

Adventurous girls can take part in our schemes in Malawi and Zambia for Sixth Formers, or our exchange programme for Year 9 with schools in Australia, Canada, New Zealand or South Africa. We have also recently established exchange links with a school in Japan. The Duke of Edinburgh scheme is very popular. We can’t possibly teach a girl all she needs to know; what we try to do is help her to think on her feet. Our girls are ambitious and in many cases quite driven. But we strive to develop spiritual and moral values, and to increase girls’ awareness of, and their responsibilities to, the wider world and those less fortunate than themselves. Queenswood girls are very special: self-confident without being arrogant, full of imagination and fun; focused on their academic work their future education path and their careers but at the same time aware of the bigger picture and the need to keep a sense of proportion and a sense of humour!

I do hope you will visit us and meet them for yourselves, please contact us 01707 602500 or visit our website www.queenswood.org

ueenswood

Feeling good about who you are and where you are.

These are the first steps to success.

A leading boarding and day school for girls aged 11–18, in a beautiful 120acre estate close to London

Set within 54 acres of stunning Perthshire parkland, Kilgraston is a welcoming community where girls truly thrive.

Open mornings 2013–14: Saturday 12 October Wednesday 20 November Saturday 29 March

Excellent Academic Results Extraordinary Facilities Exceptional pastoral care Contact us to request a prospectus or arrange a tour of Scotland’s first U.K. Independent School of The Year.

Private tours arranged throughout the year Scholarships and bursaries available

Tel: 01707 602500 www.queenswood.org INDEPENDENT BOARDING AND DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

Shepherd’s Way, Brookmans Park, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 6NS Queenswood is a registered charity (311060) dedicated to girls’ education

Queenswood Advert - Education Matters 87 x 124 mm.indd 1

www.kilgraston.com 01738 812257 Scotland’s first U.K. Independent School Of The Year 09/07/2013 14:16

www.educationforthemilitaryfamily.org.uk - Page 17

Fulneck School:

arents looking for a small, caring boarding school are strongly advised to pay a visit to Fulneck School.

At Fulneck, all pupils are encouraged to reach their maximum potential. Academic high fliers are stretched by a challenging curriculum and inspiring teachers, while those children with additional learning needs are guided by the school’s excellent Learning Support Unit. Teachers at

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Fulneck work hard to ensure each child is taught in a manner that best supports their strengths and abilities. But it isn’t all just about what goes on inside the classroom at Fulneck, the exciting and varied school life outside of the classroom is just as important. Children have the opportunity to try a long list of activities, ranging from the hugely popular Forensic Science Club, to the more traditional Chess and Film Clubs. Sporting opportunities are aplenty, with the usual football, rugby, netball and hockey on offer, in addition to activities such as canoeing, golf and Ultimate Frisbee! With so much going on, there really is something for everyone to try. Children can board at Fulneck from the age of 9. The boarding accommodation provides a ‘home-from-home’ environment and boarders are cared for by a team of dedicated House Staff.

• Excellent academic record & value added • Outstanding extra-curricular provision • Forces & sibling discounts available • Boarding from age 9

Fulneck School Outstanding independent day & boarding school for girls & boys aged 3-18 in Leeds

www.fulneckschool.co.uk

Fulneck School, Pudsey, Leeds LS28 8DS enquiries@fulneckschool.co.uk

0113 257 0235

West Hill Park School:

Excellent academic performance is central to the school’s ethos Up to Year 5 our classes are currently taught in mixed ability groups with differentiation to at least three levels. From Year 6 pupils are streamed and set for Maths, English and Science. In this way each child’s individual strengths and weaknesses are catered for both academically and socially.

t West Hill Park School, your child will be welcomed into a happy, supportive community in which everyone is valued and where we encourage everyone to show respect and care for one another. Children of Forces families will be supported by an experienced and well established boarding team who have a deep understanding of your specific family needs.

Art, Design and Technology, ICT, Music, Dance and Drama all stimulate creativity and imagination. Boarding (judged by Ofsted to be ‘outstanding’) has to be appealing to children and here boarding is very much based on feeling happy and safe, and having a lot of fun. There is firm but fair routine, time set aside for study, music practice and quiet relaxation as well as regular fun nights and special weekend activities. We offer full, weekly, flexible or a one night boarding experience to suit your family.

Excellent academic performance is central to the school’s ethos. However we are careful not to measure children by academic achievement alone and place real value on the breadth of experience they gain. Effort, enthusiasm and conduct are highly esteemed and the resulting growth in confidence is the key to unlocking other accomplishments.

Extensive games and athletics fields, an astro hockey surface, heated indoor swimming pool, netball and tennis courts all provide the necessary facilities to allow us to compete at a high level with independent schools locally and also at county and national levels. Breadth and diversity are crucial to the philosophy of West Hill Park. We encourage children to take every opportunity life brings and to appreciate the world around them. The extensive activities programme epitomises the school’s attitude that children are capable of anything, if only we let them try.’ As children progress through the school, they are encouraged to take more responsibility for their learning, and their contribution to school life. They grow to understand their importance in the community, both through instruction and example. This provides them with a strong platform, from which they can confidently move into their senior school as independent, selfreliant individuals.

West Hill Park School Day and Boarding School for boys and girls 3 - 13 years

01329 842356 admin@westhillpark.com

“Pupils are confident and articulate” (ISI Report)

www.westhillpark.com

•

Record number of Scholarships for Academic Study, Music, Art, Design Technology and Sport in 2013 •

"Outstanding Boarding provision" OFSTED •

Gold Award for teaching in Geography •

Woodland School Classrooms •

Extensive Sporting facilities •

Award winning Music

Means tested Bursaries available

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Lime House School:

Committed to fulfilling the potential of our pupils

ime House School is one of the top performing schools in the North of England based on this year’s A level and GCSE results.

In excess of 80% of A level grades achieved a grade C or better and 40% of grades were either A* or A. All sixth form students were able confirm places at their first choice Universities both in the UK and abroad. Headteacher Nigel Rice stated that ‘we continue to develop a safe and caring boarding environment, committed to fulfilling the potential of each individual pupil. We provide a good quality education for boys and girls and our recent results demonstrate our commitment to producing successful, confident and happy children who are prepared for life beyond school. ‘It is very important to me that I continue to do some teaching in the school as it allows me get to know the pupils individually. This allows me to support and advise all pupils in the same way as their classroom teachers

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and weekend and evening care staff. More specialist staff are available in our small and CReSTED registered dyslexic unit which regularly produces excellent examination results’. The school is well known for its excellent results in Mathematics and the Sciences with eight students progressing to do courses in Engineering at Universities in Cardiff, Manchester, Birmingham and Hong Kong. Our new BTec courses in ICT, Accounting & Business have opened up opportunities for several students to enter the world of Accounting & Finance for University study. The school is now actively encouraging the development of its Performing Arts and its talented musicians take part in a variety of musical groups achieving outstanding success at this year’s Carlisle and District Music Festival. Many pupils are now able to receive individual tuition to grade 6 or higher with a variety of instruments and our first performance at A level received A* grades this year.

All pupils are involved in a wide range of evening activities until 7.00pm and with the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme now a being compulsory activity we are able to take advantage of our close proximity to the beautiful Lake District National Park only seven miles from the school. This affords other opportunities for sightseeing, canoeing, sailing and mountain biking. Weekends are busy for boarders and we combine our rural location with visits to places such as Manchester, Edinburgh and Newcastle. Sport is a strong feature in the school with local, county and national success in hockey, rugby, soccer and athletics. A large sports hall extends the sporting programme to badminton, basketball, tennis, volleyball, table tennis and many other sports. Overseas students are keen to introduce their own sports with handball and judo being some of the more recent. The school has a tradition of educating many Forces pupils and the quality of boarding is excellent. There is a strong team of house mothers who combine with teachers to foster the personal development of each pupil in the school. A warm welcome awaits all new pupils and parents as we prepare to care for and educate each child to the high standards that Lime House School has to offer.

Lucton School:

EducationfortheMilitary_afjone08 25/10/2013 16:33 Page 2

Lucton’s 2013 School Inspection “Excellent” in most categories Lucton School achieved “Excellent” in the majority of the categories in their latest inspection and “Good” in the remainder! The new ISI categories have replaced “Outstanding” with “Excellent”, followed by “Good”, then “Sound” and “Unsatisfactory”. Lucton has no judgements in the bottom two categories and the majority are in the top band. This is a just recognition of the significant improvements

in all areas of achievement at Lucton School in recent years. The academic results are increasingly pleasing with highlights such as 95% 5 A* to C GCSE results last year and 55% A and A* at A Level the year before. This report also fully acknowledges broader aspects with pastoral care, extracurricular activities and personal development all being recognised as “Excellent”. There were so many positive aspects and here are just some quotes from the inspection:

“The quality of boarding provision and care is excellent. House staff have an excellent rapport with boarders and know each individual extremely well.” “This excellent teaching is characterised by strong subject knowledge, excellent use of time and pace and the highly effective use of resources, including ICT, to promote learning.” “The curricular and extra-curricular provision is highly successful in supporting pupils’ achievements.” EducationfortheMilitary_afjone08 25/10/2013 16:32 Page 1

“Throughout the school, staff provide first-class pastoral care which fully supports the school’s aims.” Quotes from Integrated Inspection Report, 2013.

LUCTON SCHOOL Building on tradition Flourishing on innovation

Set in beautiful rural West Midlands countryside, Lucton School offers outstanding educational, sporting and extra-curricular opportunities to boys and girls from Pre Prep to A level. Lucton is currently home to many forces children and offers a happy, family environment. Please a copy of the prospectus.

• Excellent results • Sixth Form Centre • Sport for all • Equestrian Centre • Combined Cadet Force BURSARIES FOR FORCES CHILDREN

LUCTON SCHOOL

Lucton, Herefordshire HR6 9PN 01568 782000

www.luctonschool.org

New Equestrian Centre

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Combined Cadet Force (CCF):

Teaching Important Values for Life Lieutenant Colonel Marc Godfrey, Contingent Commander, The Royal Hospital School (RHS) Combined Cadet Force

he Royal Hospital School (RHS) Combined Cadet Force (CCF), which is one of the largest contingents in the country, contributes fundamentally to the life of the School; teaching invaluable lessons in leadership, self-reliance, and responsibility, as wells as important skills for life beyond school, no matter what career path is chosen. With around 200 Services families at the Royal Hospital School, it is clear that these benefits are held in high regard when choosing a school for their children. CCF encourages youngsters to explore the countless opportunities available and to develop skills that can be hugely important to them in later life. They participate in a wealth of activities; take part in competition and ultimately feel a sense of achievement. Leadership is one of the most important skills taught and cadets can progress from recruit to senior NCO, although not all will aspire, or have the ability to achieve the senior posts. Nonetheless, they have the scope for exercising leadership in a variety of areas and can develop in confidence by taking charge of a section. It is very often these children who are also successful in achieving positions as School Prefects and, later in life, as leaders in whatever field they choose. CCF activities are inclusive and, above all else, fun. For those in Year 9 (13-14 years) at the

their time at school!

Royal Hospital School it is compulsory but from Year 10 pupils may choose whether to continue; however, as the most exciting activities are associated with CCF, many opt to continue throughout

Basic weekly training takes place on a Friday afternoon, generally led by the NCOs, but the highlights are always weekend field days and camps in exciting parts of the UK and overseas. The courses and camps provide many opportunities for personal development and allow the young people to experience hardship and excitement in a controlled and safe environment.

Many of the adults involved in CCF at the Royal Hospital School have previously served with the Regulars or Reserves in all branches of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces. Currently twelve teaching staff have served in the ranks up to Warrant Officer, and in Commissioned Service up to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Their prior military experience enhances training for the cadets and maintains strong links between the School and their parent’s units. When carrying out their prime roles in the classroom or in the boarding houses this experience enables them to have a special understanding of the needs and aspirations of Services families.

There are four CCF sections; the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army and Royal Air Force, and at RHS these also have active participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, the Devizes to Westminster Canoe Marathon and the Windsor Horse Show, as part of the CCF equestrian team. The RN is primarily concerned with waterbased activities and the strength of this section at the Royal Hospital School is a direct result of the School’s 300 year historic seafaring links. RHS is one of the few schools that have a RM section, which focuses on military training together with the Army section. The latter also has a REME section which maintains the School’s Land Rovers and a Pioneer Corps which has built an obstacle course and target indication range. The RAF section provides cadets with the fantastic opportunity to fly, both in gliders and in the two-seater Grob tutor. Competition is encouraged and each year the Contingent competes in the RN CCF National Regatta, the RM Pringle Trophy competition, the Army Combat Cadet competition and the RAF Cranwell competition with some good success rates. There is also the possibility of gaining formal qualifications by enrolling on the BTEC First Diploma in Public Services and also through the National Citizen Service; a flagship Government civil society programme

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aimed at 16 and 17 year olds delivered by the Office for Civil Society.

The CCF flourishes at the Royal Hospital School and provides an enormous benefit to pupils in terms of their personal development and enhancing their educational experience. The facets instilled in children at this early age will resonate clearly with serving members of the armed forces. The Royal Hospital School is a coeducational boarding school for 700 11 to 18 year olds set in 200 acres of Suffolk countryside overlooking the River Stour. The School offers exceptional fees for services families eligible for CEA and generous bursaries for pupils with a parent or grandparent who has served for at least 3 years in the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Auxiliary Service or merchant navy.

For more information contact Admissions on 01473 326210 or admissions@royalhosptialschool.org

AN INSPIRING PLACE

TO LEARN CO-EDUCATIONAL BOARDING SCHOOL FOR 11 – 18 YEAR OLDS IN 200 ACRES OF STUNNING SUFFOLK COUNTRYSIDE

DEADLINE FOR 2014 ENTRY:

13 DEc 2013

cEa means you pay just £687 per term Generous Seafaring Bursaries available if you do not qualify for CEA 01473 326210 www.royalhospitalschool. org

Bromsgrove School:

Bromsgrove: Driven by Values

ne of the oldest, largest and most forward thinking of Britain’s great schools, The Good Schools Guide describes Bromsgrove as ‘A remarkably impressive and exciting school driven with imagination and dynamism by an exceptional head’. F L A I R

The passion, vision and flair that have transformed Bromsgrove intellectually, culturally and on the games fields is also manifest in its latest facilities: eighteen new Science laboratories; new residential buildings for Senior and Prep pupils; an immense sports arena development. Bromsgrove •

D I S C I P L I N E

remains driven by values: it is committed to nurturing moral young people who make a difference for the better.

could not be more different: Bromsgrove is the gentlest of giants. If we may conclude where we began, with the Good Schools Guide:

We are broad: girls and boys, boarders and weekly boarders with day pupils, A level and International Baccalaureate, British pupils and internationals. But snobs, drones and those with a boorish sense of entitlement need not apply, for we are part of a community, not a walled bastion of privilege. Our size can, perhaps, make Bromsgrove seem intimidating. The reality

“Bromsgrove produces engaged, friendly, unstuffy and highly successful pupils.”

•

A C A D E M I C

We hope, if you visit, you will concur. R I G O U R

REGI

BROMSGROVE SCHOOL FOUNDED 1553

One of the country’s leading day and boarding schools The Good Schools “The standard and range of sports is outstanding” “A very wide range of activities on offer” and “Bromsgrove inhabits the academic stratosphere” Outstanding results at IB Diploma and A level. Huge investment in boarding and sports facilities. Boarding from age 7. Newly built and completely refurbished boarding houses. 420 full time boarders. 1300 pupils aged 7 to 18. Heart of England location with easy access to the Midlands motorway network. Set in 100 acres of beautiful tree-lined parkland.

Generous Forces’ Bursaries available. Telephone: 01527 579679 email: admissions@bromsgrove-school.co.uk

www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk Page 24 -

Special Educational Needs: activities due to medical needs. A purpose-built therapy centre on-site provides a multisensory hydrotherapy pool, a spa pool, rebound therapy and hippotherapy. 20 acres of grounds means everyone can enjoy being outside, whether in the sensory gardens, the adapted playground, walking in the orchard or flower gardens or planting seeds in the polytunnel.

QUALITY OF LIFE, FOR LIFE Inspirational care for those with complex needs

izzie had a cerebral haemorrhage when she was born which led to permanentbrain damage. Her development was severely affected and consequently Lizzie is now fully dependent for all her needs, but this has never stopped Lizzie from enjoying life. Lizzie started school at Hollybank in Mirfield, West Yorkshire in 2000 when she was five years old. A cheeky little livewire, she was soon an active and popular member of her class. Hollybank School, which takes pupils from five to nineteen years old, has enriched the lives of hundreds of children like Lizzie with profound and multiple needs. Most of the pupils in school also live in the purpose built high quality children’s accommodation, either full time or during the school week, where dedicated staff teams know and understand their needs. Hollybank has a 60 year history and fulfills the needs of those with complex disabilities. All of Hollybank’s current pupils have limited mobility and are

non-verbal communicators; many are also gastro-fed.

But Hollybank is not just about children. In 1994 the Trust made a commitment to look after its schoolchildren for life and is continually expanding that provision. We now have high quality adult care homes on our main site and across West and South Yorkshire, and one care home with nursing. Once students reach adulthood, they are encouraged to take part in meaningful activities including work and therapybased activities, art, cultural trips and other forms of relaxation.

Now Lizzie has grown up, she has chosen to stay in one of our adult bungalows. From the cheeky little live-wire she is now described as “a confident young lady who knows what she wants”. Lizzie’s mother says it best: “She has now been at Hollybank School for 13 years. It has been a really important and integral part of her life. Even though she is now an adult, her needs remain very much the same. Access to her physical therapies is critical to keep her in good shape and enable her to access the education, social and fun side of life – the therapy side is essential to this. “Why on earth would we want to change it when it has been proven to work so brilliantly?” To find out more about Hollybank School and Trust telephone Lorna Schofield on 01924 490833 or visit: www.hollybanktrust.com

Whether residential or day pupils everyone has personalised learning plans and high staff to pupil ratios. Students are treated as individuals and encouraged to be creative, independent and make their own choices. Dedicated staff groups work with pupils to help them reach their full potential. Activities are always appropriate and allow for as much repetition as each individual requires to learn, all are delivered at the right time in the right place. Hollybank always carries out a thorough initial assessment of new starters and this is an ongoing process throughout their school life. This includes sensory and social needs, and how that child perceives themself within the world. Hollybank also offers short breaks (respite) and many of its day pupils take advantage of this. Pupils and residents are cared for by a team of nurses and therapists, so they rarely miss school time or planned

www.educationforthemilitaryfamily.org.uk - Page 25

(SEN) - Dyslexia:

CReSTeD - Focus on Specific Learning Difficulties?

he umbrella term “Specific Learning Difficulties” (SpLD) is used to cover a wide variety of difficulties. Many people use it synonymously with dyslexia (a difficulty with words), but it is now generally accepted that dyslexia is only one of a group of difficulties. Lesley Farrar from CReSTeD provides an update and advice on dealing with SpLDs. Every parent around the country will be very aware of the challenges facing children face in school. Whether to join the Drama group, the Chess Club or play on the Football Team can be heavy questions for a child.

Sometimes parents find there are more difficult questions to face: • why isn’t my child reading as well as other children? • why does my child have difficulties in sport? The answer might be that a child is coping with a Specific Learning Difficulty – otherwise known as SpLDs. These include Dyslcalculia,

Dysgraphia, Dyspraxia, Attention Deficit Disorder and Asperger Syndrome (see boxed copy for definitions). CReSTeD is a charity set up to provide guidance and assurance to parents who are seeking a school for their child with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) – of these the main difficulty is dyslexia. CReSTeD works with support from several organisations: the British Dyslexia Association, Dyslexia Action, Dyslexia SpLD Trust and Helen Arkell Dyslxia Centre, and is the key reference point and a symbol of quality when seeking a school with SpLD provision. If your child is dyslexic, the continuity of education allowance is only available for schools approved by CReSTeD.

These categories are not a hierarchical grading of the quality of provision - they are there because children have different needs, and the categories go some way towards matching the level of the pupil’s needs to the level of provision at the school. An educational psychologist’s report should offer guidance as to the level of provision relevant to your child. The CReSTeD Register includes a checklist to help parents decide if a school can meet their child’s special educational needs, and a geographical index of schools. Published annually, CReSTed supply copies, free of charge to parents, local authorities, education psychologists and many others who have a role in helping parents to find the right school for their child. The Register is available direct from the CReSTeD Administrator in booklet form but it can also be downloaded as either an iBook (for viewing on an iPad) or as a pdf (viewable on numerous devices). Full information is also published on the website: www.crested.org.uk.

Which School Should I Choose?

CReSTeD was founded to help parents. It has had and will continue to have influence on the standards of provision for SpLD pupils.

CReSTeD divides the levels of provision at schools into six broad categories labelled: Dyslexia Specialist Provision, Specialist Provision, Dyslexia Unit, Specialist Classes, Withdrawal System and Maintained Sector.

For more information about CReSTeD or for a copy of the Register, please contact: Lesley Farrar, either by Tel 01691 655783 / 0845 601 5013 or Email: admin@crested.org.uk; www.crested.org.uk

Barrington Stoke:

Barrington Stoke: 15 years of cracking reading

eading is both an immense source of pleasure and a key to learning, and at Barrington Stoke we know it is vital that dyslexic children and struggling readers receive the additional support they require to ‘crack the code’. Every parent wants their child to make that jump from learning to read, to loving to read. We know that this is not always as simple as it sounds. Barrington Stoke is an independent, awardwinning publisher dedicated to cracking reading. We have over 15 years’ experience of publishing accessible, enjoyable and unpatronising short books for children who are dyslexic, struggling to read, or simply reluctant to sit down with a book. We have always been committed to publishing the best authors in the business, partly because they write the very best stories and partly because we want our readers to have access to

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the same authors as their peers. Our amazing array of award-winning, top- selling authors include Michael Morpurgo, Malorie Blackman, Julia Donaldson, Terry Deary, Jeremy Strong, Darren Shan, Andy Stanton and Anne Fine, to name but a very few.

Our books are crammed with ingenious tricks to ensure an accessible read: • They are printed on high-quality cream or off-white paper to reduce visual stress. Thicker paper also helps reduce distracting showthrough • We have our own dyslexia-friendly font, developed with a team of experts • We pay careful attention to layout and especially to the spacing between the letters and the lines. This encourages a smooth and easy read • The stories are broken up into manageable chapters, and give clear natural ‘rest breaks’

• We often include age-appropriate illustrations to break up the text, to enhance the plot and help the reader keep or find their place From our acclaimed Little Gems early reader series for 5-8s through to 8-12s and teen titles with reading ages of 6 to 9, and a selection of titles for adults, all with dyslexia-friendly features, we have something for everyone who struggles, for whatever reason - to set them on the path to being a happy and confident reader. For more information, advice or for a free catalogue, contact the team at 0131 225 4113 www.barringtonstoke. co.uk

iansyst:

Expand your world achievement through technology iansyst Ltd is one of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading assistive technology (AT) and disability services suppliers

ith 30 years experience we pride ourselves on our ability to source, develop and provide high quality assistive technology products and services. We help people with a variety of disabilities including: dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, visual impairments, deaf and hard of hearing difficulties and those who require ergonomic solutions. iansyst is well established in the education sector, supplying AT to schools and Further Education colleges and helping SENCoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and learning

support teams to support pupils with special educational needs by supplying the required computer equipment and software. We are also a QAG approved Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) supplier, providing disabled students in Higher Education with the equipment they need to help them complete their studies. In addition to working in conjunction with different organisations we also assist individuals in matching the right technology to their needs. This includes advising them on the most appropriate

software and hardware products based on their specific requirements and often involves demoing relevant programmes to them . Our online shop which is a recent development for the company, allows customers to browse our full product range and purchase products directly and at their convenience. Visitors to the site can also download trial software and request catalogues. Take a look to discover more. For further information about iansyst, please visit www.iansyst.co.uk.

www.educationforthemilitaryfamily.org.uk - Page 27

Cranfield University: Universities:

The Forensic MSc Programme: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about Choice

he Forensic MSc Programme is run by the Cranfield Forensic Institute (CFI) which is based at the UK Defence Academy, Shrivenham. Cranfield University is a primarily a research institution and has therefore no undergraduate students but concentrates its teaching aspects entirely on MSc and PhD students. This creates a mature, professional environment, in which learning, progressing and achieving is possible without distraction. Being based on the grounds of the UK Defence Academy also provides our Forensic Institute with opportunities in ballistics and explosive research that are simply unique in Europe.

What can you study? Forensic Archaeology & Anthropology MSc/PgDip Gain experience of forensic archaeology and anthropology and benefit from spending a year specialising in this area.

Forensic Computing MSc/PgDip/PgCert Forensic Computing is also known as computer forensics, digital forensics or cybercrime forensics. Whichever term is used, it is a dynamic area of criminal investigation, with new tools, techniques and methods constantly available to both the investigator and the investigated.

Forensic Investigation MSc/PgDip/PgCert Develop an understanding of how the physical sciences and other specific disciplines can be used to help resolve issues in relation to civil and criminal law.

There are two main teaching philosophies that we apply here at Shrivenham: a) any theoretical teaching is immediately put into practical exercises and b) students have a maximum of choice in what they learn. All students have three out of eleven modules that they can select themselves and by doing so they create an individual learning experience that is tailored to their talents and aspirations. With the Forensic Investigation degree, we have taken choice even one level further with seven out of eleven modules freely elected out of a pool of over twenty modules.

Forensic Ballistics MSc/PgDip Develop an understanding of how the physical sciences and other specific disciplines including ballistics, weapon function and weapon failure can be used to help resolve issues in relation to civil and criminal law.

Forensic Explosive & Explosion Investigation* MSc/PgDip Gain an understanding of how the physical sciences and other disciplines including explosive science, fire and explosion investigation and risk analysis can be used to help resolve issues in relation to civil and criminal law.

Forensic Engineering & Science MSc/PgDip Acquire an understanding of the application of key scientific disciplines to problems in forensic science and engineering.

*(currently not being run but is under constant review. Please enquire regarding availability)

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How can you study? The MSc programme can be undertaken on a part-time or fulltime basis. Parttime students are often in full-time employment and take from two-five years to complete the course. There is plenty of flexibility and we recognise that many students will need to balance their studies with their career. The course is modular and students can select modules throughout the academic year to fit in with other commitments. Most modules require students to spend one week only on site. Students can continue with coursework assignments at a convenient time and location. The total commitment for the course is to spend twelve weeks at Shrivenham over a period of up to five years. In addition, students must complete a research project and thesis. Full-time students complete the course in one year. The programme starts once a year in September.

How to apply? Prospective students can apply throughout the academic year. We have an Open Day in spring and are also happy to arrange individual site visits to discuss your prospects in detail.

Further information and application forms are available from:

www.cranfield.ac.uk/forensics or you can email Roland Wessling

r.wessling@cranfield.ac.uk.

If you want to make sure to gain a place on the programme, it is well worth applying before Christmas. The Forensic MSc Programme has grown considerable in popularity in recent years and since we are very careful to maintain our very high staff to student ratio, we cap the total numbers of admissions. This means that late spring or early summer is usually too late to gain access to the September cohort.

The Forensic MSc Programme is all about choice and application in a professional, educational environment: Choice: 6 themes - over 30 modules - 1 Programme. Select between 3 and 7 modules from a range of modules, from radiography to ballistics and from archaeology to mass fatality investigations. Application: most modules teach a combination of theory and practice. Learn trilateration and trigonometry in the classroom and go straight out surveying the landscape. Learn the theory behind stratigraphic excavation techniques and go out and excavate mass graves for six days. Professional, Educational Environment: Cranfield University is one of the very few universities that have no undergraduate students. This means that all lecturers, supervisors, tutors as well as resources on campus are exclusively for MSc and PhD students. The result is a mature, professional learning environment with a diverse group of students who themselves have much to offer and are an integral part of the learning experience.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your Choice... Contact: (Mr) Roland Wessling Email: r.wessling@cranfield.ac.uk Website: www.cranfield.ac.uk/forensics

Queen Mary University of London: Masters in Trauma Sciences â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a critical care nurse and lecturer, the MSc has expanded my understanding of trauma management of critically ill patients and has allowed me to develop and implement complex-trauma education into a pre-registration nursing curriculum. The management of time critical trauma demands knowledge and competency and this course provided underpinning and advanced knowledge, which enabled me to develop my practice in order to deliver a higher standard of trauma care. Overall this has been an excellent course that by far surpassed my expectations. I fully recommend and endorse this course, and would urge any practitioner that may be involved in the care of trauma patients to enrollâ&#x20AC;? Dean Whiting (second year trainee)

Understanding of the science and practice of trauma care

ueen Mary University of London offers a Masters in Trauma Sciences (MSc) Programme focusing on Military & Austere Environments

With war, global disasters, humanitarian crises and mass casualty incidents on the rise, the importance of specialist training in the science and management of trauma is increasingly vital. The aim of the programme is to ensure that graduates develop a broad and critical understanding of the science and practice of trauma care. Graduates of the MSc will acquire the knowledge, technical skills, decision-making and professionalism to safely deliver a core set of approaches to the management of injured patients. The Masters in Trauma Sciences (Military and Austere) has been developed in collaboration with The Royal London Major Trauma Centre, The Royal College of Surgeons of England and the Global Education Website Trauma.org. Numerous areas of expertise are welcome such as specialists in surgery, anaesthesia, pre-hospital care, and rehabilitation. All nurses with an interest in trauma care are encouraged. The course benefits greatly from diversity of fields and skill sets. A wideranging variety of perspectives contributes significantly to the quality of discussions and

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considerably enhances the overall course community. The MSc is delivered entirely online as a part-time distance-learning course - apart from a two-week summer session. The Masters in Trauma Sciences Programme is specifically designed to be accessible and supportive of participants working full time and is amenable to being accessed remotely when traveling or deployed. The first year is an interactive learning programme covering the full breadth and depth of trauma sciences. Participants learn about the epidemiology of trauma, principles and practice of public health and trauma systems, pathophysiology of injury, evidence based clinical management from pre-hospital care through to rehabilitation, and evaluation of outcomes after injury. The first year is delivered online, via online web content, video presentations, asynchronous case-based discussions and open-forum sessions. A research methods component provides the basis for a dissertation focusing on a specific area of interest or original research, which is completed during the second year. Medical personnel from the international community with extensive experience delivering care to critically injured in various settings including high intensity combat are closely involved with

the MSc as lecturers, seminar leaders, key tutors, and dissertation mentors. The summer programme convenes in London between first and second years and concentrates on group projects, workshops, and training in specialty skills at The Royal London and The Royal College of Surgeons. The summer session provides the opportunity to consolidate knowledge and test real world applications of systems design and clinical leadership whilst immersing participants in a focused learning environment. This session offers a unique opportunity to share experiences and develop new global contacts for future projects and personal development. The Masters in Trauma Sciences Programme is intended to create an intellectually stimulating environment, to facilitate interaction, group relationships and a greater community committed to the care of the injured with the ultimate goal of developing future leaders in the science and practice of trauma.

MSc Trauma Sciences (Military and Austere) Two years part-time (distance learning)

The MSc in Trauma Science is a world leading, cutting edge programme that is relevant to all clinicians interested in advancing trauma care. This unique distance-learning course, open to doctors and nurses, will provide you with a broad, critical understanding of the most up-to-date science and practice of trauma care in military and austere environments. A summer school will incorporate simulated scenario training. Core modules include: n Trauma; the Disease n Haemorrhage and Response to Injury

For more information and to answer any queries: Vijay Patel Trauma Sciences Blizard Institute Newark Street London E1 2AT Tel: 020 7882 6532 email: vijay.patel@qmul.ac.uk

n Torso Trauma n Brain and Spinal Cord Injury n Critical Care and Trauma

n Fracture Biology and Extremity Trauma n Military and Austere Trauma n Research Methods

Director S. I. Brundage, MD, MPH, FACS Professor of Trauma Education Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry Queen Mary University of London The Blizard Institute email: s.brundage@qmul.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 6563 Fax: +44 (0)20 7882 2180 www.qmul.ac.uk/trauma-military

The University of Edinburgh:

Get The Edinburgh Advantage The University of Edinburgh Business School provides a learning experiencedesigned to give students the skills to be effective leaders across industry’s most competitive sectors

he Business School enjoys a long tradition of teaching and research. The school offers undergraduate, postgraduate and executive education programmes in business and management and providesa platform for research, discussion and debate on a wide range of business issues. Part of the University of Edinburgh, one of the world’s top 20 universities with a rich heritage of delivering education for over 400 years, the University of Edinburgh Business School has an international student body typically representing more than 80 countries. The student body comprises 880 undergraduate students, 470 postgraduate students and 128 doctoral students. Recently the school relocated to a new building at Buccleuch Place, located at

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the heart of the university campus. This state-of-the-art space features eight lecture theatres, multiple syndicate rooms, an executive education suite, student study centre and online resource, a cafe, and significant flexible space for staff and students. The building has been designed and specified to meet the current and anticipated future needs of the school’s portfolio of activities and represents an investment of £17m by the university.

Intellectual environment: The school’s teaching and research covers six main subject areas – accounting & finance, entrepreneurship & innovation, management science & business economics, marketing, organisational studies and strategy & international business. An emerging area of expertise for the business school is strategic

leadership marked by the recent recruitment of four Professors with expertise in this important business area. The School offers a highly ranked MBA programme, an EMBA and MSc programmes in Management, Finance and Investment, Accounting and Finance, Financial Management, Banking and Risk, Human Resource Management, International Business and Emerging Markets, Carbon Finance, Marketing and Marketing and Business Analysis. The school is accredited by EQUIS and AMBA – reflecting not just a long history of business teaching but also the substantial experience of a faculty comprising more than 90 teaching staff. Core to the school’s philosophy is a close interaction with the corporate world through industry-based research and consultancy. The school aims to attract excellent staff and students from around the world; to provide an intellectual environment which fosters debate and world-class research and to build strong connections with the world of business.

Further information To find out more please visit: www.business-school.ed.ac.uk

The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336

The Edinburgh MBA. Set your sights on a global experience. Attracting an international cohort, you’ll be part of a truly global experience. The Edinburgh MBA delivers a rigorous curriculum focused on leadership, innovation and best practice, incorporating extensive opportunities to connect with a vibrant and influential business community at the heart of Scotland’s historic financial capital. The University of Edinburgh Business School shares in an educational heritage that stretches back more than 400 years.

Our history, reputation and location ensures that the experience you can expect is one of the world’s best. If you’d like to join a thoughtful, ambitious and diverse group of like-minded business people, immersing yourself in our comprehensive approach to leadership, visit our website and hear what our graduates have to say.

Take a closer look, visit

www.business-school.ed.ac.uk/mba

Got a smartphone? Scan this QR code to visit the Business School’s MBA page.

Adult Education:

he Ministry of Defence promotes lifelong learning among members of the Armed Forces, from the day you join and start basic training, to career courses where you learn a trade and gain City & Guilds, National Vocational Qualifications or Higher National Certificate qualifications, right through to the day they leave the Service and gain further training for your future career in civilian life. Following the recent cutbacks, the Ministry of Defence is now making a concerted effort to get the remaining serving members of the armed forces to utilise your training funding, this allows full time members of the Armed Forces to pursue your personal development, both during your Service and for up to ten years afterwards, subject to the qualifying criteria being met. Enhanced Learning Credits All serving military personnel can join the Enhanced Learning Credits (ELCs) scheme and are then entitled to claim up to £6000 towards the cost of training and education courses. This funding can be spent with any learning provider who has registered with the Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS), who hold a list of approved commercial training companies, colleges and universities. Standard Learning Credits Every serving member of the Armed Forces is entitled to a sum of £175 per year towards the cost of personal and professional development. This can be used in conjunction with IRTC and ELCs. Resettlement Grants If you are leaving the Armed Services and in resettlement you are entitled

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Promoting lifelong learning among members of the Armed Forces to The Individual Resettlement Training Costs (IRTC) Grant, this is a tax-free entitlement of £534 towards the cost of a course. Additionally, Service Leavers can claim a daily subsistence allowance of up to £79 towards the cost of accommodation, meals and incidental expenses. This can be claimed for up to a maximum of 49 days, depending on the individual’s length of service. In the following pages we have a directory of training providers who are actively seeking armed service personnel both serving and in resettlement, Some are ELC registered and some you can use your SLC’s and Resettlement Grants with. Talk to your Education and Resettlement officer for more information on how to claim your funding and for advice and guidance on what qualifications you could benefit from.

Career Skills at Forth Valley College

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Bespoke Tailored Training

We also specialise in designing and delivering bespoke tailored courses to meet your business needs. These courses can be delivered at any of our campuses or at your premises. Email: businessdevelopment@forthvalley.ac.uk Call: 01324 403173 Click: business.forthvalley.ac.uk

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1st Training Ltd:

Get to grips with gas Around 24,000 people leave the Armed Forces every year. To support the often daunting transition into civilian life, the MOD runs a resettlement programme to help personnel find new careers.

his programme is very successful with close to 85 percent of leavers finding employment within six months of leaving the Armed Forces. For those with technical leanings, the opportunity to train as a gas engineer can be very appealing. 1st Training, an established company based in Huntingdon, runs new entrant courses that are perfect for Armed Forces personnel looking for a new career. “Trainees don’t have to have any qualifications but they do have to have a mechanical or engineering background. To date, we have had armourers, aircraft fitters

and mechanics come through our doors,” says Andy Clark, Director. Once the resettlement trainee has been taken on by a company, they can begin training as a gas safety engineer. The 1st Training course involves nine days training spread over four months and three days of assessment. In addition, as part of their training, applicants are expected to build a portfolio to provide evidence that have done certain tasks. Each entry in the portfolio has to be signed off by their employer. “Unsurprisingly, many companies

are enthusiastic when it comes to resettlement trainees. But it is a winwin situation. Companies that take on an apprentice from the Armed Forces benefit because they will have an employee but the government will pay their wages. The trainee gets on-the-ground training with a good chance of a permanent job with that company at the end of their training.” Set up by a team of experienced engineers with decades of experience in the field, 1st Training runs training and assessment modules covering gas, electric and water. Its courses are recognised and accredited by NIC Certification, CITB/C Skills, Logic Certification and City & Guilds. It has worked with ex-Armed Forces personnel for over seven years (Figures from https://www.gov.uk/ government/news/army-personnelinformed-of-redundancies)

www.educationforthemilitaryfamily.org.uk - Page 35

Approach Training Safely:

What can Approach Training Safely do for me? Whether you are a member of the military or a member of the military family, Approach Training Safely can help your relocation be a smooth one.

e imagine leaving the services must be quite an anxious time, with many changes, lots of uncertainty and losing that feeling of being part of a team. So when we heard of this venture to support personal development and employability skills for service personnel, we said ‘Brilliant! but what are you doing for the rest of the family?’ Family members have supported our service personnel for many years, relocating frequently, changing schools and employment. This can

make it difficult to gain qualifications and experience that will make you stand out from the crowd in today’s job market. Here at Approach Training Safely, we want to change this to ensure that every member of the military family is looked after and supported on their release. I’m sure the question you’re now asking is “ What can Approach Training Safely do for me?????’. Our aim is to assist all members of the family back into work by getting you work ready and very appealing to employers, supporting all learners regardless of ability or previous learning experiences. Our unique service supports you to re-train and develop a range of skills, including Employability Skills, all on one site, with your friends and colleagues around for support. Sounds good? Approach Training Safely work alongside DpConsultancy (NE) Ltd and Malvern Fuels Ltd, providing

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training and consultancy services as members of the CASAzone Group. From January 2014, we will be trading from our brand new, purpose built training facility in Hartlepool. This development will exist to provide a one-stop-shop for construction passports and training, First Aid, First Person on Scene, Health and Safety, including Level 2 Health and Safety at Work and L3 National General Certificate Nebosh qualifications and Instructor courses. If Health and Safety or teaching is not up your street, why not enroll on one of our Care Skills Induction courses? This will give you all the qualifications required to gain a job in the health care industry, including Introduction to Care, Moving and Handling, First Aid, Safeguarding, Equality and Diversity, Health and Safety, Food Hygiene and Infection Control. We also offer stand-alone Edexcel accredited diploma units in health and social care which can count towards a full Diploma if you choose to take that route in the future. It would be fantastic to meet you at our open days on December 17th 2013 and January 17th 2014, where you can meet the team, discover opportunities and get your future started! This is a very exciting time for us and we would love to share it with you, why not check out our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter, watch the construction and keep up to date with Approach Training Safely! www.facebook.com/ ApproachTrainingSafely

Call Kathryn on 07800 630269 or email: info@approachtrainingsafely. co.uk for more details about our open days and courses or to book your places.

Fostering & Adoption: Who Can Adopt?

any people consider adoption but are often find they are unsure about who can adopt. The minimum age for a person to be able to adopt is 21, however there is no upper age. That said most adoption agencies will not place a younger child with older adoptive parents. You will have to pass a medical examination and some local authorities will not place children with smokers, however all ethnic and religious backgrounds are encouraged to adopt, along with single people, weather hetrosexual, lesbian or gay, Families with their own birth children are also encouraged although some local authorities will require a certain age gap between the children, and may expect the adopted child to be the youngest.

Getting Started You will need to make your application through and adoption agency, most agency’s will work within a 50 mile radius of their office. Only one application can be followed through but you may apply to several agencies in the initial stages. This is beneficial for Service Families when considering future assignments. It is worth noting that the whole process may take up to 3 years to complete, and once the process has been started with one agency you are unable to transfer to another, most agencies operate in the UK only.

What about Fostering? As a military family you have excellent transferable skills, much needed by fostering

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As a Military Family Could you Foster or Adopt a Child? agencies. In the past the biggest stumbling block for an armed service family was the lack of stability. With the launch of the super garrisons and more families becoming stable, this is no longer a stumbling block for the armed service family to get involved. You can choose to go through a local authority or private foster agency, however many insist you have your own home. One of the main questions you must address, as a Service Family, is if you are fostering and you are being deployed will your partner be able to continue the fostering commitment whilst you are away? As with any employed

position different agencies offer different packages, so we would suggest you check out a few agencies before making your final decision. www.bemyparent.co.uk has a fully comprehensive list of agencies, both independent and Local authority for you to look at.

Getting Started As with Adoption you may apply to many different fostering agencies in the interim period, and if you should move base you can also apply easily to an agency at your new base. Again most agencies for fostering are UK based only

For further information of Fostering and adoption: Adoption register for England and Waleswww.adoptionregister.org.uk Adoption UKwww.adoptionuk.org Association for British Adoption and Fostering – www.baaf.org.uk SSAFA forces Help adoption agency – www.ssafa.org.uk Gov – www.gov.uk and search for adoption Be my Parent – www.bemyparent.org.uk

Action for Children:

A super foster family! With the recent changes in the armed services, families are now attached to one base within “Super” Garrisons and experiencing a much more stable life

he new move means that army families are able to help and support the UK’s most vulnerable children and young people now more than ever by providing loving foster homes. Mike Gardner, 48, lives with his wife Carol, 52, in Bargoed, Caerphilly. Mike entered the army in 1981 at the age of 16 and was enlisted as an infantry soldier for the Coldstream Guards and then transferred to the Adjudent General Corps in 1993. After 25 years of service and reaching the rank of full Corporal Mike left the Army on 9 January 2007. At this time Carol, who had always thought about opening their home to some of the country’s most vulnerable children, decided to take voluntary redundancy and

started to explore the route of becoming a foster carer. Carol, who has taken on the family role of a primary foster carer, said, “I had previously performed managerial roles in the care industry and really enjoyed the work. “It was important for me to go through the fostering process with Action for Children because I knew they put children first before money.” The couple were delighted by Action for Children’s continued support throughout their application and were given valued support by their dedicated social worker. “When we took the two day introduction course I found it interesting and it gave me a fantastic confidence boost that our

family were capable of helping vulnerable children”, said Mike. Mike feels that his forces training and experience helps him to play an important role in the care of their foster children. Mike adds: “Looking after a foster child can be challenging at times so it’s really important to remain calm under pressure, be able to communicate effectively and give good advice when required. Seeing a foster child grow in confidence and being able to progress and help them to hopefully make the right choices in life, is what Mike and Carol enjoy the most about fostering Mike concludes: “I think that ex members of the armed forces can make fantastic foster parents, as they have the discipline, they know when to be tough and they are capable of being good listeners”. If you would like to find out more information about fostering through Action for Children, visit: www.actionforchildren.org.uk/foster

www.educationforthemilitaryfamily.org.uk - Page 39

TACT:

Why foster for TACT? Like joining the services, becoming a foster carer can be a life changing decision. It’s certainly not an easy one

ur foster carers consistently tell us that the job they do is difficult, but also the best and most rewarding thing they have ever done. Foster carers who already have families will see their children make new friends for life. Providing a loving and secure family home, transforming the life of some of the most vulnerable children in society, is not for everyone. Many of them will have experienced abuse or neglect before coming into care. It takes determination, patience, love and understanding. The results can be amazing. Children who have been in TACT foster care have seen their lives transformed, becoming successful happy adults.

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So why foster for TACT, the UK’s largest charity provider of fostering and adoption services? We know that for a child in care to succeed it is essential that their foster carers are given all the help they need. We have many years experience as an independent fostering agency. We’ve seen it all. Before you start, you will be given extensive training covering all aspects of being a carer. You’ll have a TACT social worker who will visit you regularly. You will be able to contact us 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for help and support. TACT is a Sunday Times ‘Best 100 Not For Profit Company to Work For’, so we support our staff to help you. We help many of our carers to go on to take opportunities for career development

through more specialised training or by accessing courses. TACT believes that service families are the ideal environment for children in care to prosper. We know that developing strong relationships, beyond the immediate family that cares for them, is absolutely fundamental to their well being and development. The sense of community that exists in service families is exactly the sort of environment that will allow them to gain confidence and prosper. Local authorities will often ask TACT to care for some of their more troubled children and young adults. Often they will never have been shown the love, attention and security that most of us take for granted. A service family could provide just the home they need. ‘For me, being a foster carer is the best job in the world. It’s challenging, but also so rewarding. You’re on a journey from the moment you get the children’ Sheila Cummins, TACT Foster Carer

ISP Childcare:

Make a difference to the life of a child ISP is an innovative and creative foster care organisation that provides high quality childcare, education and therapy for children and young people who face a wide variety of challenges

e are an organisation that aims to help children and young people untangle and make sense of the past so that they can be freer to enjoy a positive and fulfilled future. We have been working with local authorities since 1987, we have grown considerably and now have centres throughout Kent, Sussex, Buckinghamshire, South London and Enfield, each of which provides a variety of specialist services to the children in their care. ISP needs foster carers who can provide a nurturing, stable environment and who

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enjoy working within a dedicated, multidisciplinary team. ISP families participate in an intensive training and assessment process in preparation for the challenges of their work. Our comprehensive ‘wrap around’ support includes, qualified social workers, psychotherapists, education co-ordinators and fostering advisors. Each centre provides their foster carers with a supportive team with one carer describing ISP as ‘just like one big family.’ Our aim is to enable children and young people to get to know who they are and to grow and live in harmony with themselves and others. We achieve this by

providing the opportunity for children to experience stable family environments, and in order to achieve this by recruiting, training and developing high calibre foster carers. So if you have ever thought about a career in fostering doing a worthwhile and satisfying job whilst making a difference to the life of a child, we would really like to hear from you! We can offer you excellent rates of pay, high quality support, training and development. Make a difference to the life of a child by phoning us for more information on 0208 370 3670/08000857989.

Adventure Service Challenge (ASC): ASC’s primary function is to provide an organised, structured, flexible and adaptable scheme of indoor and outdoor activities available to any group - which can find the leaders commitment to make it work. It is multi-faith and open to all cultures. A substantial Leaders’ Handbook sets out the activities for the scheme‘s four Stages: Junior 1 and 2; Senior 1 and 2; and the eight sections in each of those Stages. It provides a major resource of worksheets and activities to support the leaders in each of the sections. Although the Handbook sets out a suggested target level, completion of a section is at the discretion of the leader who can also tailor the activities to match the requirements of the individual. Those taking part are not in competition with each other and progress is measured by their own personal achievement. The intention is that every individual should have achievable goals that will stretch them.

Every individual should have achievable goals that will stretch them

alk to anyone familiar with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and it won’t be long before you hear them say ‘what we need is a similar scheme for younger children!’ We all know

• The need for appropriate channels for that energy and enthusiasm.

this need for over fifty years. From its beginning in the back streets of Marylebone, London, it recognised that well before they were eligible to undertake the Award, younger children also sought structured activities and goals. Whatever their backgrounds, they wanted their own record cards and their own possibilities of achieving badges and certificates. To succeed the scheme would have to be flexible and adaptable - to allow for goals to be set by the local leaders, who would know the young people and know what each could attain.

Adventure Service Challenge (ASC), formally called the ASC Scheme, has been meeting

Since those early days, ASC has shown a remarkable resilience in matching those criteria. It has

• The importance of early support • The potential enthusiasm of younger children - whether in school or out

served the needs of schools and out of school groups, uniformed organisations, groups provided by voluntary organisations, and those run through the statutory youth service. Within these areas, it has been notably successful in meeting the needs of children and young people with special learning needs and all kinds of physical disabilities. It has also determinedly stuck to the age group 8 to 14 and beyond; not to trespass on Award territory but to allow older groups to participate where this has proved most appropriate. Perhaps the most striking example of this was a successful ASC group run for a time in a Young Offenders’ Institution.

Society demands that children and young people keep a portfolio of their achievements which show breadth, balance and their interests and strengths. ASC provides an easy and straightforward way of supporting this. Record Cards are available for those taking part, giving an outline of what is required for each stage. The Cards are cumulative and tailored to the activities of that particular Stage and provide for “sign off” when completed. There is a Certificate for each of the 4 Stages for presentation when all the activities for that Stage have been completed successfully. This serves as a permanent record of the young person’s achievement. Membership badges are also available. For further information about ASC, such as the activities set out for each of the four Stages, see the scheme’s website at www. asc-scheme.org.uk, or telephone 01225-329838.

ASC is a registered charity no. 292690.

www.educationforthemilitaryfamily.org.uk - Page 43

Duke of Edinburgh Award:

ave you ever wondered what it’s like to do your DofE? Education for the Military Family hears from youth charity The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award about what it means for a young person to do their DofE, how it equips them for the future and just what skills they learn. The DofE is the world’s leading achievement award for young people of all backgrounds aged 14-25. Set up by the Charity’s Patron, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh in 1956, the DofE is a unique personal development programme that allows young people to try new things, develop their interests and skills set, while working towards an achievement award which is recognised by employers and educational establishments across the globe. When it comes to looking for a job, college or University place, young people will be glad to have done their DofE, it looks great on a CV as it demonstrates commitment and dedication as well as a variety of key skills employers look for in young recruits- it’s also good fun!

What’s involved? A DofE participant follows their own programme of personal development in order to achieve their Award. Participants choose their own activities for each of the sections, meaning they are measured on activities they have an interest in and enjoy for each of the sections, introducing a new meaning of success to young people’s lives, outside of the classroom. At Bronze and Silver level, participants pick activities from each of these four sections:

Volunteering: For example,

helping out at an animal shelter, social media class or elderly people’s home

Physical: improving in an area of sport, dance or fitness activities – for example, this could be running, football or even Zumba!

Skills: developing practical and

social skills and personal interests

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Taking part in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – film making, learning to drive, playing an instrument or learning to care for an animal all count!

Expedition: getting outdoors for an adventurous journey – planning, training for and completing a challenging journey in the UK or abroad is possibly the most exciting aspect of the DofE. At Gold level, there’s an additional Residential section to complete which involves staying and working away from home doing a shared activity.

The DofE by numbers… 1: In an independent survey

by the United Learning Trust, employers rated DofE as the number 1 accolade on a young person’s CV after academic qualifications

3: DofE levels – Bronze, Silver and Gold 6: the amount of months you can

complete Bronze in

14: the age you can start working towards your Bronze DofE 15: The number of pounds it’ll cost you to get a Bronze DofE participant place

57: the number of years The Duke

of Edinburgh’s Award Charity has been running since its Patron HRH The Duke of Edinburgh founded it in 1956

99,147: DofE Awards were achieved last year 300,000: young people currently doing their DofE in the UK

2,000,000: people have

achieved a DofE Award in the UK

Making the DofE work… In a recent survey of DofE participants aged 16-18, 80 per cent said they think that having their DofE will help them to secure a job, with the Volunteering voted as the section young people felt would be prepare them for the workplace. But how does taking part in the DofE help young people to get a job? While it looks great to employers to have a highly sought after, nationally recognised achievement award on their CV, it’s important participants understand which skills they’ve developed as a result of taking part and how these will translate into working life.

The survey also revealed that the DofE equips young people for working life with half of respondents stating they could demonstrate all five of the skills and attributes the CBI suggests as illustrative of a young person being ‘employable’. Two thirds stated that, in an interview situation, they could confidently demonstrate communication skills through their DofE experience and 89 per cent said they could work as part of a team, two attributes which will prove invaluable in the workplace.

What do employers think about the DofE? In a recent independent survey of UK employers by the United Learning Trust, the DofE was voted was the most valuable accolade a young person can have on their CV after academic qualifications. Entrepreneur and former Dragon Theo Paphitis says he actively looks for the DofE when he receives a CV. He says: “I believe the DofE gives young people the character, attitude and key skills which will allow them to do wonderful things throughout their lives. When I get a CV through, to see the DofE is a big tick in the box because I know they chose to do something that’s really hard. That they took up the challenge and saw it through.

Achieving your Gold DofE is a huge tick in the box and really does change lives for the better.” But it’s not just employers who are interested in hearing about a young person’s DofE experience, many top universities and colleges are now looking for much more than good grades and extra-curricular activities; they are interested in young people who can evidence a genuine and committed interest in their desired area of study.

How do young people feel that their DofE is equipping them for the future? 16 year old Helen White from Windsor is currently working towards her Silver DofE through her school. Helen says:

15 year old Amber Ballard from Lydiard Park Academy in Swindon started working towards her Bronze DofE when she was 14; she has just started her Silver. Amber says: “I’ve tried so many different activities through my DofE, for Bronze I did Taekwondo for my Physical, fishing for my Skill and I completed my Volunteering section by helping out at with my local Guide Dogs branch which I really enjoyed. Doing my DofE has helped me with my confidence and working in a team, I think it will look really good on my CV too!”

To find out more about The DofE please visit: www.DofE.org

“I wanted to do my DofE because it sounded like really good fun, especially the expedition. I can expand on a lot of my interests through my DofE activities; for example, I teach windsurfing to 8-15 year olds for my Volunteering section which helps me to learn to lead people and work towards my goal of being an instructor. The DofE allows me to try new things; I get bored staying in and not doing anything so it’s a fun way of getting outdoors and doing something worthwhile with my time.”

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BXM Expeditions is a unique expedition company put together to work with all schools in the UK. As Duke of Edinburgh expedition experts, we have set up and help develop schools with their Outdoor Pursuits departments running some of the most accessible expeditions in the country.

> Fully qualified experienced leaders > Stress free DofE expeditions > Provide personal, educational and fun service > Includes - talks, Group kit and assemblies as standard > Affordable, professional service > Reach the summit of the highest mountains in England & Wales as part of your Gold Package.

So what are you waiting for, get your walking boots on and start your adventure with BXM Expeditions! To arrange your Duke of Edinburgh Award, 3 Peaks Challenge or custom expeditions...

0800 433 2963 info@bxmexpeditions.co.uk

Ocean Youth Trust Scotland:

My trip away with Ocean Youth Trust Scotland was absolutely amazing! At the beginning I was slightly nervous about spending 6 days with a group of people I had never met. By the first evening those misgivings had disappeared.

had gone in hope of meeting people around my own age with similar interests as me (something that I have always struggled with) and to my utter joy that is exactly what I found. The boating experience in itself was fantastic, but having people around that where so much fun and so full of life â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including the staff â&#x20AC;&#x201C; really made it a perfect holiday. Sailing with Ocean Youth Trust Scotland also allowed me the chance to get away from some of the complications and restraints of family life for a time. I truly feel that I have grown and developed as a person over this period. I have noticed a world of difference in my confidence when communicating with others around

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me and just simply being myself. There was such a range of fun and exciting activities that helped this process in a whole manner of ways: working as a team, applying new knowledge to scenarios that occurred, using initiative to get a job done quickly and effectively. All of these are skills I believe that I can relate to life in general. It was also lovely to view the west coast from a different perspective other than that of a stuffy, noisy car. The sea staff onboard were also really inspirational. They all helped us feel like a proper part of the crew by encouraging us to try new and intimidating tasks that threw us out of our comfort zones. Due to their friendly and open attitudes, in no time the boat felt like

a second home and one that I was sad to leave. The crew will always hold a special place in my heart and abiding memories, not least thanks to their creation of a cockpit bath, which made only having a shower once in 6 days a little more bearable for the nose. So yes, we ended the voyage rather smelly, still reeling from the shock/horror of cleaning the heads and cooking and cleaning for 14 people, but my experiences onboard were completely new and thrilling. The memories that were made are likely to stick with me for ever, along with my new life skills. Every single second was a pleasure and completely exhilarating, even when the railings of the boat where in the water and I was curled into a pathetic ball due to sea sickness. I have found that my time with Ocean Youth Trust Scotland has been so positive and life changing that I cannot end my voyaging and experiences with you now. I have applied to train as a bosun to carry on learning and developing even more and earning the opportunity to continue forwards with Ocean Youth Trust Scotland into the future as a fully committed member of Sea Staff. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity for such an unbelievable experience. It has surpassed anything I could have hoped for!â&#x20AC;? Thoughts from Ruth aged 15

DofE Expeditions For Groups And Individuals • Entire expedition programmes. • Supervisors and assessors to work independently or to assist you with your groups. • Open expeditions for those who can’t make their group expedition or had to drop out of it. • Training for staff and volunteers.

We also have a large number of free resourses to help you deliver the expedition part of the DofE to your groups. Visit the downloads section of our web site

www.lupineadventure.co.uk

lupine@lupineadventure.co.uk

0113 410 3712 07581 693 076

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Basti Ram:

Broadening horizons and facilitating opportunities for ordinary people

asti Ram is a UK registered charity (1137644) that works to provide education and learning opportunities to underprivileged communities both in the UK and in India. We believe that cross cultural exchanges broaden horizons and facilitate opportunities for ordinary people to make a genuine and meaningful difference to the lives of communities across the globe. Our projects in India are designed to facilitate learning between some of the most rural and deprived communities in Rajasthan and the travellers who join us from the UK and other parts of the world to work on our community projects. We are proud to be a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme Approved Activity Provider (AAP) for which we offer residential experiences for participants aged 16-24. Our residential trips meet the residential requirement of the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, are fully supported and offer a genuine insight into the lives of the poorest communities in Rajasthan. Participants work in Rajasthan’s primary schools and day nurseries where resources are scarce and teaching staff are difficult to recruit, they share skills and provide much needed help.

Lucy, our past DofE participant had this to say of her teaching experience:

“My favourite part of everyday is definitely the teaching. The children at the school are so happy to see us when we arrive every morning. During the lessons they often try very hard to impress us and fight for front seats! I enjoy everyday and come back to the volunteewr house in a great mood” In their free time participants have the opportunity to take part in escorted excursions that celebrate the highlights of Rajasthan, including camel safari’s, horse treks, desert family stays, magnificent forts and temples, and cultural puppet displays. Participants stay at our volunteer house, and are provided daily with three freshly prepared meals sourced from local produce. Prior to departure participants are given fundraising support and advice, and take part in a comprehensive pre-departure briefing workshop. In India, participants are supported by a dedicated venture leader. All of Basti Ram’s DofE residential trips conform to the British Standard in expedition leadership (BS8848), which is specially designed for UK organisations that offer adventurous activities abroad.

Kerry, past DofE participant:

“My time here has been magical and a once in a lifetime experience. I have so many highlights...the children at the school and the boys home and getting to understand the Indian culture. The excursions I experienced were mesmerising and this trip has made me feel fortunate to have experienced such things. This trip is something I will remember for a long time, totally inspirational...thank you!” Forthcoming dates are: 1st-15th August 2014 1st-29th August 2014 Prices: 2 week residential: £950 4 week residential: £1250 Costs include pick up from Udaipur airport, comprehensive orientation, accommodation, 3 freshly prepared Indian meals a day, a volunteer placement, local transportation, cultural workshops in Hindi language and Indian cookery and one excursion. Flights, visas and personal travel insurance costs are excluded

For more information: Email: volunteer@bastiram.org Tel: Rachael - 07515 857865 Website: www.bastiram.org/the-dukeof-edinburghs-award Alternatively, we blogged about our past DofE participants time in India, which you can read about here: bastiramthedukeofedinburghaward. blogspot.co.uk/

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Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site â&#x20AC;&#x153;We welcome Duke of Edinburgh Award Groupsâ&#x20AC;?

Gateway to the Northumberland National Park

Opens March - January

01434 220175

Tents Caravans Motorhomes Camping Pods

Brown Rigg, Bellingham, NE48 2JY bellingham.site@thefriendlyclub.co.uk

Military Property Solutions (MPS):

HELP & ADVICE WITH YOUR BIGGEST FAMILY DECISION: SECURING YOUR OWN HOME

hilst the troops are preoccupied with preparations for the next operational tour or overseas training deployment, partners are often left wondering about their own long term security and housing prospects, and may well ask themselves the question, “How will I secure my own family home?” that all important first step: investing for the future with In spite of several MOD the first foot on the property initiatives to support house ladder. MPS provides help purchase with Long Service at every stage. Drawing Advance of Pay and the Armed together a range of experts, Forces Home Ownership it takes the hassle out of the Scheme, frequently military process, from selecting a personnel serve many years sensible investment, getting before getting on the property a mortgage, conducting a ladder. More often than not survey, purchase negotiations, it is the spouse that takes the conveyancing, tenancy first step, and provides the sourcing and vetting and motivation! management. Also, having negotiated fixed fees with all Military Property Solutions the professionals involved, (MPS) is a company designed MPS makes budgeting for the by military for military that process easy, with its market helps clients to take the first beating rates. step onto the property ladder. In the current climate, there is We caught up with the little hope of getting that ideal founder of Military Property family home on leaving the Solutions, Maj (Retd) Ben forces, unless you have started Roberts, to find out what with something more modest motivated him to start MPS, a good while beforehand. “Having served for over 20 MPS helps service clients to years, and been married for achieve their ultimate property 12 years, I am aware of the ambition, by assisting with hectic pace and operational

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focus of military life these days, and of the very great sacrifices made by service families. In some respects the odds seem stacked against Service personnel, but I do believe, based on experience, that given the right advice, Service Personnel are better placed than many to get on the property ladder. I wanted to ensure that this opportunity was made available as widely as possible. So I set up MPS to pull together the relevant experts to deliver an end to end service.” Perhaps the most difficult aspect of property purchase in the current climate is finding a deposit, but Government Home Buy schemes as well as

the upgraded LSAP scheme from the MOD can provide vital assistance. Meanwhile, for those on ops, the Operational Allowance lump sum payment still represent an excellent source of assistance. Whatever your situation, MPS has a range of options to suite your needs, and will guide you through the process to help you take that all important first step. We can begin with a program of one to one tutorials, or an informal brief to a group of families, or formal unit briefings. So, what ever you require, don’t delay: visit MilitaryPropertySolutions.com, and >Get Started.

Army - (Salisbury):

A to offer.

rmy Salisbury Garrison is set in the beautiful Wiltshire country side and the Garrison has much

Bulford 4 Rifles are stationed in Bulford on Salisbury Plain and as a part of the 1st Mechanised Brigade they operate the Bulldog armoured personnel carrier. During a tour of Iraq in 2007 they earned themselves the nickname the Lions of Basra. The Rifles Regimentwas formed from the Devon and Dorset Light Infantry, The Light Infantry, The Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Light Infantry, and The Royal Green Jackets. The Royal Military Police (RMP) are responsible for policing the military community worldwide. 158 Provost Company, Royal Military Police can be found in Bulford. Bulford is situated in the beautiful countryside of Wiltshire and forms one part of Tidworth, Netheravon and Bulford Garrison. Bulford lies at the foot of Beacon Hill and it easy to reach such places as Basingstoke, Reading and London as well as Southampton, Bournemouth and Exeter. The village of Amesbury is situated just 3 miles from Bulford Camp and just outside Amesbury are the recognised World Heritage sites of Stonehenge and Woodhenge. Bulford has a range of facilities which are within walking distance. Bulford shopping precinct has a Spar/NAAFI, post office, electrical store, butchers, military tailors, hairdressers, a café, an Indian and Chinese take away and an Indian restaurant as well as a video rental shop. The Beeches family centre situated on Bulford Road is a community centre with a range of facilities including a bistro/coffee shop, a conference room, a function room and bar. These are available to hire for christenings etc. There is also a crèche and pre-school, a beautician and unisex hairdressers. The Haig centre, situated off Bulford Road at the back the Jefferson Estate, is where all the youth activities take place and boasts such facilities as: The Haig

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Nursery (all day child care), The Getaway Club (after school and holiday care centre for children from Kiwi and Bulford primary schools), The Youth Club (5 to 12 years), Bulford Cubs and Scouts, Parent and Toddler Group, The Thrift Shop and Health House where the midwives and health visitors work from. Tidworth Barracks The Kings Royal Hussars - and The 2nd Royal Tank Regiment are locally recruited Regiments stationed at Tidworth. Also based at Tidworth are 1st Regiment Royal Horse Artillery (1 RHA) and 19 Regiment Royal Artillery(The Highland Gunners) Tidworth is situated in the beautiful countryside of Wiltshire, on the border to Hampshire, and forms one part of the Tidworth, Bulford and Netheravon Garrison. It easy to reach places such as Basingstoke, London, and Reading as well as Southampton, Bournemouth and Exeter, from Tidworth. The village of Amesbury is situated 9 miles from Tidworth Camp and just outside Amesbury are the recognised World Heritage sites of Stonehenge and Woodhenge. The Ashdown Family Centre in Drummer Lane (just off Station Road) offers a wide range of activities for parents, carers and their children - from “Stay and Play” sessions to parenting classes,

A Garrison that has much to offer... special needs groups and free counselling. The Tidworth Leisure Centre is situated in Nadder Road, just off Pennings Road, and offers a wide range of activities for all ages. It is equipped with a fitness suite, swimming pool (including flume), tennis courts and squash courts. Also at the Leisure Centre: Café Leisure, the HIVE, Library, Jo Jingles, Caterpillas Day Care (0-5yrs), Community Development Worker, a community hall, Jammie Dodgers After School Club for children from the Clarendon Infant and Junior School, Hairdresser and Purity Beauty salon. The Windmill Hill Children’s Centre is a Sure Start Children’s Centre, situated on Wylye Road (off Pennings Road), and caters for parents/carers and their children (0-5 yrs). As well as daily activities they offer half term activities and host childminder support groups. There are several nurseries, crèches and primary schools to choose from, with the nearest secondary schools in Ludgershall (Wellington Academy) or Andover. The Hive has a wide range of

facilities, most of which are within walking distance. The Ashdown Family Centre offers a wide range of activities for parents, carers and their children - from “stay and play” sessions to parenting classes, special needs groups and free counselling. The Tidworth Leisure Centre offers a wide range of activities for all ages. It is equipped with a fitness suite, swimming pool (including flume), tennis courts and squash courts. The Windmill Hill Children’s Centre is a Sure Start Children’s Centre which caters for parents/carers and their children (0-5 yrs). There are several nurseries, crèches and primary schools to choose from, with the nearest secondary schools in Ludgershall (Wellington Academy) or Andover. Tidworth HIVE Tidworth Leisure Centre Nadder Road Tidworth Wiltshire SP9 7QN Email: tidworthhive@armymail. mod.uk Tel/fax: 01980 650 224

Never thought about God before? Thinking about Him now? SASRA has helped generations of Service Personnel and their families think about the big questions.

Leaden Hall School Our girls are successful at winning scholarships to independent schools and gaining entry at 11+ to South Wilts Grammar School Forces Discount Independent Girls School Ages 3 to 11, Day and Boarding

On Deployment? Contact

deploymentsupport@sasra.org.uk At Home? Contact SASRA HQ

admin@sasra.org.uk Tel 01252 310033

SASRA, Havelock House, Barrack Road, ALDERSHOT. GU11 3NP

Leaden Hall School, 70 The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2EP t: 01722 334700 e: registrar@leaden-hall.com www.leaden-hall.com

www.educationforthemilitaryfamily.org.uk - Page 55

No one who has served our country should battle blindness alone Blind Veterans UK supports blind and visually-impaired Armed Forces and National Service veterans and their families - no matter what caused their sight loss. Call 0800 389 7979 or visit www.noonealong.org.uk to find out how Blind Veterans UK can help you. Blind Veterans UK, 12-14 Harcourt Street, London, W1H 4HD | 020 7723 5021 | enquiries@blindveterans.org.uk | Registered Charity No 216227 (England and Wales) and SC039411 (Scotland)

Navy - (Portsmouth Naval Base): serving personnel set Armed Forces communities apart from civilian society. Royal Navy community provision addresses the unique military environment and is based upon the need to support the whole service community, providing resources where civil society does not meet the need. The development of a strong sense of community and feeling of wellbeing amongst all personnel and their families supports the critical link between welfare and operational effectiveness. It confirms the strong sense of community and a feeling of wellbeing translates into military readiness, operational effectiveness and retention.

Portsmouth Naval Base has been an integral part of the city since 1194

ortsmouth Naval Base has been an integral part of the city since 1194. It is home to almost two-thirds of the Royal Navy’s surface ships, including the aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious, new formidable Type 45 destroyers, Type 23 frigates and mine countermeasures and fishery protection squadrons. It will be home to two new aircraft carriers – HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince Of Wales – which are currently being built. At 65,000 tonnes they will be the biggest ships ever built for the Royal Navy. The base is a major employer with about 16,000 people

working at peak times. It provides lodging facilities to RN personnel serving at the base and in Portsmouth-based ships. The base is home to the oldest dry dock in the world, as well as being the headquarters for two-thirds of the Royal Navy’s surface fleet. The base is also home to a number of commercial shore activities, including shipbuilding and ship repair (operated by BAE Systems Maritime); naval logistics, accommodation and messing; and personnel support functions (e.g. medical and dental; education; pastoral and welfare) provided by

Defence Equipment and Support. The base is the oldest in the Royal Navy and it has been an important part of the Senior Service’s history and the defence of the British Isles for centuries. At one time it was the largest industrial site in the world.[1] The Naval Base is also home to the “Portsmouth Historic Dockyard”, which allows members of the public to visit important maritime attractions such as Mary Rose, HMS Victory and HMS Warrior. The nature of military activity and way of life of

To enable and facilitate community based events, Naval Personal and Family Service and Royal Marines Welfare provide and maintain a variety of Community Centres and Community Houses at various locations. These facilities provide a focal point to promote and provide opportunities to obtain local support, access information and networking to assist with problem solving and building resilience. Portsmouth Naval base has a dedicated Hive which will give you all the information you require on choosing a school in the local area, along with after school clubs and extracurricular activates available to your family, and offers support for new families to the base.

To contact the hive telephone 02392 722 151 or pay a visit to Room 6 - Orion Block Nelson Personnel Centre HM Naval Base Portsmouth PO1 3HH The opening times are 08:30 to 16:00 hrs Monday to Thursday and 08:30 to 13:00 Fridays.

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University of Portsmouth:

Balancing acts Is postgraduate study right for you? Studying for a degree in any field can be rewarding both personally and professionally, but many people aim even higher. A postgraduate degree can dramatically advance your career prospects, for many it’s a question of finding a balance between learning and earning

onathan Holmes studied for his MSc in Advanced Manufacturing Technology at the University of Portsmouth in order to take his career to the next level. “I already had a diploma in manufacturing and mechanical engineering and a BEng degree under my belt when I won a short-term contract with VT Shipbuilding in Portsmouth,” says John. “By the time the contract came to an end, I’d already decided to return to university to study for an MSc. Doing a Masters means I can go into industry at a higher level and be paid more. It makes a huge difference.” When Detective Chief Superintendent, Michael McDonagh chose to pursue an MA in Business Management, he had a number of considerations. “Several of my colleagues had recommended the University of Portsmouth as it is a well established provider of higher education to the police force,” explains Michael. “I chose the Learning at Work, Partnership Programme because the flexibility of the course suited my busy lifestyle. My only problem now is what to do next – I have been getting up at six every Saturday morning to study. Now I will miss the challenge of juggling work, study and family commitments.” Tina Tompkins also gained a Masters degree through the Learning at Work Partnership Programme. It’s enabled her to progress her career to a much more senior position. “I chose the Partnership Programme because of its flexibility and being able to fit it around my job,” she said. “Working long hours meant I needed something which would allow me to study when I could do it rather than being tied into lecture times.”

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Tina acknowledges that there were a number of factors that contributed to her success; “I was able to put together my own syllabus made up of taught units, projects based on my job and even previous work. The support from my tutor was excellent. My family thought I was mad but they were very supportive too. You need that support structure because working and studying can be very demanding. It was the graduation ceremony which made me realise what I’d achieved in two years, and how my hard work has paid off.” John Cookson, a Civil Engineer with Hampshire County Council studied parttime to earn his MSc in Civil Engineering. “Since I graduated with a BSc in 1993, I’ve spent my working life on site, supervising construction projects of all sizes,” recalls John. “I always wanted to go higher in education, but I didn’t have the time or the opportunity until my employer offered to pay my fees and I jumped at the chance. It’s a great opportunity to refresh my knowledge, learn new skills and improve my promotion prospects.” John also acknowledged that finding time to study while working was a delicate balancing act; “The most difficult thing about studying parttime on a postgraduate course while working is maintaining a high standard both at work and in my coursework,” John admitted. “Also, I have a family so life can be quite hectic. But I managed, partly because I’m used to managing workloads, but also because I got on well with the tutors and other students, and my manager has been really supportive.”

David Hume put his MSc in Mechanical Engineering to immediate use. He said “Doing an MSc definitely puts you in a better position when it comes to applying for jobs and has resulted in my getting a position at a level above the standard graduate entry.” “Before returning to study I’d worked at Fleetlands, who repair, maintain and overhaul helicopters, engines and mechanical components for the armed forces, but I’d started to feel in need of a change,” John explains. “I decided to do a degree at Portsmouth after it was recommended by a friend. The lecturers here are world class, leaders in their field. Deciding to do my MSc here was the best decision I ever made.” After completing his studies, David took a position with Smiths Aerospace working in design and testing.

The University of Portsmouth offers a range of options for full-time, part-time and flexible study at postgraduate level. Visit www.port.ac.uk and search for courses by title or subject area, browse the complete list including the Partnership Masters Programme at www.port.ac.uk/courses, or order a postgraduate prospectus at www.port.ac.uk/pgprospectus.

RAF Leeming:

hen you arrive here you will notice that RAF Leeming have extensive on-station childcare facilities, ranging from pre-school infant day-care, Stepping Stones Nursery, through to before and after school clubs, Jesters, for older children. Many parents find the before and after school clubs that are run throughout the school term a big benefit and we world recommend registering your interest when you arrive at the base as the places are limited and hugely popular. During school holiday times a play scheme is offered for school age children, again these schemes are very popular with both the young people and parents alike. All facilities are OFSTED registered and are run by a highly motivated and dedicated staff team. As RAF Leeming has married quarters on and off site, the schooling for juniors, ages 5-11, is split. Those on station attend Leeming RAF Community Primary where as those living at Leeming Bar attend Aiskew & Leeming

WELCOME TO RAF LEEMING Bar School, both schools are happy to accommodate service children. If you are looking for independent schooling we recommend visiting the HIVE for more information. With the Secondary school, both quarter sites, pupils attend Bedale High school, if you are looking to utilise

your Continuity of Education allowance there are many high quality boarding schools in easy distance of the base. Again if you would like specific information on these please contact the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Advisory Service, or alternatively speak direct with your Hive. North Yorkshire has many places to visit on your leave that are family orientated From Big sheep Little Cow the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s farm to visiting Mother Shiptons Cave in Knaresborough For a great educational visit why not try Eden Camp the modern history themed museum which tracks the historical events of World War II. This Day proves popular with the older child, many cadets visit this camp. For a longer journey then try the Nuclear Bunker at RAF Holmpton

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RAF Leeming is also home to the air training corps flight experience, where you will find many cadets from the North region learning to fly the Grob Tutor. Your local squadron can be found on the Regional ATC HQ at RAF Linton on Ouse.

For more information on what the station has to offer contact RAF Leeming HIVE c/o Central Registry RAF Leeming Gatenby Northallerton N Yorks DL7 9NJ Email: LEE-BSW-HIVEIO@mod.uk

Tel: 01677 457734 Mil: 95851 7734

Queen Ethelburga’s:

Why choose Queen Ethelburga’s as the boarding school for your child? Principal Steven Jandrell explains: backgrounds and we work hard to support those children and the difficulties they face being away from home and worrying about their serving parents.

iving as a member of a Forces’ family is a pretty unusual experience and not normally fully understood by those who don’t have to do it. Civilians find it difficult to imagine a job where you can be moved at little or no notice and where you can be sent into a hostile zone with no regular means of contacting your family. Rest assured we understand the pressures that your family has to go through. About a fifth of our pupils come from Forces’

This year our academic results at the College ranked us as the top school in the North of England and our Faculty, which offers more vocational subjects such as BTECs in business, arts, fashion and music, recorded an average of 449 UCAs points. Our sports facilities are the most comprehensive of any school in the North. With our £6 million sports complex we can play any sport no matter the weather. Our new Hockey Astro Turf means we can offer the same opportunity to our Hockey players and every week our children get to use our swimming complex on site.

Over the last few years our Combined Cadet Force has increased in numbers and now stands at about 80 regular cadets, split between the Air Force and the Army. With the backing of The Martin Charitable Foundation we are able to guarantee that your contribution to fees is no more than £795 per child per term. If you also use the Ministry of Defence’s Childcare Voucher Scheme your termly contributions could fall to under £500 per term. This makes us one of the most competitively priced boarding schools in the United Kingdom for Forces’ children. With our investment now standing at £65m, 2013 has seen more facilities come online including new sports science

lab, state-of-the-art gym and our new Activity centre. With the number of young people we have living on campus it is important that there is always a range of things to do in their spare time. This is the idea behind our new Activity Centre. Packed full of all the favourite things young people like. Combining outdoor energetic activities and challenges such as a huge climbing tower, military style assault course, trampolines, roller booting, go-karts, Segways and professionally built BMX track with indoor activities like electronic games, musical activities plus much more.

Don’t just take our word for it, pay us a visit and see for yourself. Call us on 01423 333330 for a prospectus and DVD.

www.educationforthemilitaryfamily.org.uk - Page 61

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*Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer expires 18.12.14. For details of our Group Sales facilities please email Groupsales@cotswoldoutdoor.com or call 01666 718576.