AFFILIATED with the Royal British Legion, HMS (Her Majesty’s Schools) Heroes is a unique international pupil-voice group supporting Service children and young people.

Originating in Plymouth and now featuring member schools worldwide, the group exists to raise the profile of Service children and to help explain the unique challenges that go hand-in-hand with being part of a military family.

School groups support each other, organise events and activities and engage in local community projects.

HAMBLETON2Hambleton Heroes

Five schools, with only a few Service children in each, are known as the Hambleton Heroes. They have come together for joint membership, bringing their community together and giving important peer support.

One of the Hambleton Heroes explains: “I thought I was the only child with a mum and dad in the Army and felt really different. It was great to meet children like me.”

Beyond peer support

Sharing with others is key to giving Service children confidence to understand that they’re not unusual, and that there are likeminded friends they can turn to for support.

The initiative goes far beyond peer support, HMS Heroes members act as ambassadors to provide insight into what it’s like to be a Service child – helping to bridge gaps between school staff, fellow pupils and the wider community.

Arms around the world

A recent message from Mount Pleasant Falklands HMS Heroes to the Catterick and Richmond group said: “It feels like we are part of one big school together, even though we are miles apart.

“It’s good to know that someone cares about people who are part of the military family and to have people who understand how we live even if we are 8,000 miles away.”

Sign up your little soldier

If your child would like to get involved, visit www.hmsheroes.co.uk or email Pete Ogburn and Hazel Thomson at hmsheroes@btinternet.com

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