Finding the Right Jumper Some of our Forces parents explain how a boarding environment really does help their children through the difficult periods apart. In the light of Government defence cuts and the changes to the Continuity of Education Allowance, it seemed an appropriate moment to allow the wider Monkton constituency a glimpse into the lives of service families and the specific and particular needs that ensue as a result of the significant number of postings. I well remember my first term at the Prep 13 years ago, and chatting to a new parent, Col Peter Sharland. He and his wife, Fiona, explained that at the age of 11, James – who went on to be Head Boy at both the Prep and Senior School – was facing starting his fifth school! Stability and continuity are both vital ingredients in terms of educational development, but the story does not start and stop there. For a school to have a deeper understanding of the real stresses and strains that face HM Forces families, the development of strong, open relationships between parents and house staff, parents and teachers and even the Head, is absolutely vital. For children, saying goodbye to Mum and Dad as they are dropped off at the start of term is really tough, especially so when they are so very young, but it’s also hard for their parents too. Anyway, let them tell their own stories... Chris Stafford Headmaster Monkton Prep
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