Family: Mum Laura and kids Lexi and Finley
Moving to: Somerset

Before our arrival
Prior to our recent move into our own home, the head teacher gave us a tour of the school, showed the children their new classrooms and introduced them to their teachers and fellow pupils. It was very helpful for Lexi and Finley to see their new school environment.

Extra support
They were allocated a ‘buddy’ with a military background, even though the school doesn’t have a large intake of military children, to help from their first day. It became apparent that they both had some learning gaps from moving every two years. The teachers quickly picked up on this and have provided some additional support. Lexi has also benefited from the school’s Emotional Literacy Support group who have worked with her on a one-to-one basis to help build her self-esteem and confidence.

Smooth transition
Finley said: “When I started my new school, my teacher took me out of the class a few times to see how I was feeling and to talk about how I was settling in. She told me I was doing really well and it made me feel better. I also got a medal and certificate from the head teacher because I had settled in so well.”


Family: Mum Michelle and daughters Felicity & Katherine
Moving to: North Yorkshire

Before our arrival
We were lucky that Felicity was returning to her old school and class, but the school still went out of its way to welcome her back, sending a letter and photo from the class before we moved saying how much they were looking forward to her return.

Extra support
On her first day, a teaching assistant welcomed her at the gates. Her class teacher and the head teacher also sought me out to introduce themselves and check that all had gone okay.

Smooth transition
She had a really smooth and happy transition back into school, which also meant I could focus on settling my youngest into school when she started in reception in September.


Name: Emma Leeson, parent and pupil support worker
School: The Avenue Primary School, Warminster

Before they arrive
I contact parents within the first few days to introduce myself. I normally ask if there are any upcoming exercises or periods where family members may be absent. It’s always good to know this in advance if possible.

Extra support
I usually run some drop-in sessions where children can meet. CEAS is a great resource which I also recommend for advice and support (gov.uk/CEAS). It’s good to have leaflets available to distribute when needed.

Smooth transition
The Service Children in State Schools group is also a must for schools keeping up-to-date with important changes – they provide a wealth of resources. We have a welcome tab on our website for Service families so that they are able to find out more about our local area such as how far we are from the ‘patch’.


Name: Mr Wilson, head teacher
School: Wincanton Primary School

Before they arrive
Army families have been arriving over the last three years. Some have come from Germany where things were very different; they were used to seeing tanks every day and were able to walk around the camp – it’s not the same here.

Extra support
We encourage both military and civilian children to talk about what it is like to be them.

Smooth transition
Some families have soldiers on tour. If we know, we can heighten our awareness and put a little bit of extra armour around the children to support them.

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