Author: DCS
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Primary School Aged Childcare Overseas (PSACO) Allowance launches January 2026
The PSACO Allowance, will be available to eligible Service families in overseas locations where the Defence Wraparound Childcare (WAC) Allowance eligibility criteria cannot be met. What is the PSACO Allowance? The PSACO Allowance is the final phase of the WAC scheme. Providing a reimbursement of before and after school childcare costs for 4–11-year-old children (4-16…
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Spreading Light and Joy: Diwali Celebrations at ESBA Early Years
The ESBA Early Years settings in Dhekelia and Ayios Nikolaos recently hosted a vibrant and heart-warming celebration of Diwali, bringing together children, parents, and staff for a day filled with joy and creativity. The dedicated team at ESBA organised a range of engaging activities and beautifully designed tuff trays to mark the Festival of Lights.…
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Excitement as Defence Children Services students open 2025 exam results
Defence children across the globe have once again demonstrated their determination and resilience, achieving some superb exam results that will pave the way to leading universities and careers in military service. Defence Children Services (DCS) operates educational facilities specifically designed to serve military families worldwide. DCS runs two secondary schools in Cyprus – King Richard…
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How satisfied are you with family life while serving overseas?
Halfway through Defence’s Overseas Families Survey – have you had your say? Wherever you are in the world, Defence is here to support you and your family to navigate various aspects of Service life, including: If you’re serving overseas, it’s important that Defence understands your positive experiences and any challenges. Your feedback will help to…
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Wraparound Childcare funding, updates for autumn term 2025
Update to capped hourly rates, how to register for the first time and changes to WAC Overseas registration and claims process. Are you eligible to join the 9,000 Service families claiming up to £3,400, per child, per year, for their before and after school childcare costs? What is Wraparound Childcare (WAC)? The WAC scheme provides…
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Queen Victoria School Pipe Band and Highland Dancers Perform at SSAFA’s 140th Anniversary Service
The Queen Victoria School (QVS) Pipe Band and Highland Dancers were honoured to be invited to perform at the 140th anniversary service for SSAFA, the UK’s oldest tri-service Military charity. The service was held at the impressive St Mary’s Cathedral in Edinburgh, and brought together veterans, supporters and dignitaries, including SSAFA’s National Chair, Sir Simon Bollom.…
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Assigned overseas? Have your say on Service family life
If you and your partner are assigned overseas, Defence wants to hear from you on what Service family life is like. Share anonymous feedback in the Overseas Families Survey. Tell Defence what information and support has helped you and your family while serving overseas, and what could be better. Here are some areas you’ll be…
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Queen Victoria School Support Installation of New Governor at Edinburgh Castle
On 1 May 2025, five Queen Victoria School pupils proudly represented the school at the formal installation of Major General Bob Bruce CBE DSO as His Majesty’s Governor of Edinburgh Castle. Held on the historic Castle Esplanade, the ceremony was steeped in tradition and pageantry, marking a significant moment in Scotland’s military heritage. Major General…
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Defence Children Services (DCS) Attendance Week 2025: Celebrating School Attendance, Achievement and Educational Opportunities Available to Service Children
Defence Children Services (DCS) are thrilled to announce DCS Attendance Week 2025, which will take place from the 19th to the 23rd May 2025. The week will showcase the incredible educational opportunities available to Service Children, whilst emphasising the importance of fostering partnerships among communities, schools, students, and families. Service Children are excelling in their…
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Sixth Form Students Take on Manchester: ‘Designing Your Own Future’ Visit 2025
Sixth form students from King Richard School and St John’s School, recently embarked on an exciting and invaluable visit to Manchester. The trip was designed to support students in preparing for their next steps after school, equipping them with a greater sense of independence and a deeper understanding of university life and expectations. The visit…