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Choosing the Right Boarding School: Guidance and Support for Service Families

  • Feb 27
  • 2 min read

Choosing a boarding school is a significant decision for any family. For Service families, additional considerations such as mobility, deployments and maintaining educational continuity can make the process even more important.


Ultimately, the decision about which school is right for a child rests with the family. Every child is different, and factors such as academic strengths, pastoral support, extracurricular opportunities, location and boarding environment will all play a part in finding the best fit.


What Should Families Consider?


When researching boarding schools, Service parents may wish to consider:

  • The school's academic offering and examination results.

  • Boarding provision and the quality of pastoral care.

  • Support available for children from Service families.

  • Co-curricular activities, sports and enrichment opportunities.

  • Travel arrangements and accessibility during term time.

  • Inspection reports and wider school reputation.

  • Fees and any available discounts or bursaries.


Visiting schools, attending open days and speaking with current parents and pupils can provide valuable insight into daily life at a school and help families make an informed decision.


Sign up to our monthly newsletter and you will receive emails about schools on our database when they host open days and events.

Support Available to Service Families


Service personnel have access to the same information and resources available to all parents when researching schools. In addition, specialist guidance is available through the Education Advisory Team (UK) (EAT UK), part of Defence Children Services (DCS).


EAT UK can provide information and advice to help families understand their options and navigate the educational implications of Service life. However, they do not recommend individual schools or tell families which school to choose.


Boarding Schools and Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA)


For some Service families, boarding education can help minimise disruption caused by frequent moves associated with military service. Eligible Service personnel may be able to claim Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA) to contribute towards the cost of boarding education.


Schools eligible for CEA are listed on the Accredited Schools Database (ASD), which is maintained by EAT UK. The database contains schools that meet the requirements set out within MOD policy for CEA admissibility.


Read our blog: Understanding the MOD Accredited Schools Database (ASD) for further information about the ASD

It is important to understand that inclusion on the ASD should not be viewed as a recommendation or endorsement by the Ministry of Defence. Families remain responsible for deciding which school is most appropriate for their child.


The contractual relationship for school fees remains between the parent and the school. The MOD does not pay fees directly to schools. Instead, eligible Service personnel claim Continuity of Education Allowance in accordance with MOD policy.


Further Information


Families seeking information about boarding schools and Continuity of Education Allowance can contact EAT UK or visit the resources below:


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