Service Children's Champion

15/10/2026

If you live near Catterick Garrison you should pop down and see the amazing poppy display created by local schools such as Cambrai Primary School, Carnagill Primary School , Le Cateau Community Primary School, Wavell Community Primary School, Hipswell Church of England Primary School and more. It is absolutely beautiful and they should all be very proud 👏

06/10/2026

My favourite time of year and one of the best events I have the privilege to be part of. Don't miss out on your spot at the most Christmassy way to start the Christmas holidays!

05/10/2026

A fabulous opportunity for families in Catterick Garrison!

01/10/2026

Somewhere, another child has felt nervous about starting a new school.

Another child has had to say goodbye to friends.

Another child has missed a parent away on deployment or training.

Another child has wondered where they fit in.

The experiences of Service children may be different, but they are rarely faced alone.

When children have opportunities to connect with others who understand military life, something special happens. They realise that their experiences are shared, their feelings are valid and that there are people who understand.

Connection builds confidence.

Friendship builds belonging.

Community helps children thrive.

Every Service child deserves opportunities to meet others, share their experiences and know that they are not alone.

💬 What has helped your child feel connected to others who understand military life?

01/10/2026

As adults, we often talk about Service children. But how often do we stop and listen to them?

Every Service child has their own experiences, hopes, worries and ideas.

Some may want to talk about moving schools.

Some may be missing a parent who is on deployment or training.

Some may be thriving in a new environment.

Others may still be finding their feet.

The most important thing we can do is listen without assumptions.

When children feel heard, they feel valued.

When they feel valued, they are more likely to develop confidence, build connections and find a sense of belonging.

No two Service children will have the same story, but every story deserves to be heard.

💬 If you're a parent, what's something your child has taught you about military life?

28/09/2026

18/09/2026

One of the questions I'm asked most often as Service Children's Champion is:

"How can I help my child cope with an upcoming deployment?"

Every child responds differently, but there are practical things parents and carers can do to help children feel secure, listened to, and supported during times of change.

In this short video, I share three simple tips that can help make those conversations a little easier and support your child's wellbeing before a deployment begins.

If you're navigating a deployment in your family right now, please know you're not alone. 💜

16/09/2026

Register before the deadline on 01 Oct.

Defence Children Services: Service Pupil Premium – register your child before 1 Oct 2026
If you're a Service parent and your child attends a school in England, make sure their school knows about your Service status before 1 October 2026.

Eligible schools can receive £360 per eligible Service pupil through the Service Pupil Premium (SPP), helping them provide additional support for Service children.

Find out more about eligibility and how you can help your school access this valuable funding:

https://dcs.school/2026/09/11/service-pupil-premium-2026-extra-funding-for-service-children-in-england/