DCS News
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Defence Children Services Honour the Month of the Military Child 2026
April is Month of the Military Child, a moment each year to pause, reflect and celebrate the extraordinary children and young people at the heart of our Armed Forces community. Across 20 Defence Children Services (DCS) Schools and Settings worldwide, communities came together to celebrate each and every Service child, through creative and joyful activities.
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A Guide to Celebrating the Month of the Military Child in April 2026
What is the Month of the Military Child? The Month of the Military Child is an annual event held in April, providing an opportunity to celebrate Service children and the vital role they play within the Armed Forces community. every year, we recognise their resilience, adaptability, and unique experiences. Let’s make 2026 the biggest year
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From the Classroom to the House of Commons: A Proud Moment for King Richard School
Stepping out of your comfort zone is never easy, but it can open doors to extraordinary opportunities. One of our Year 12 students shares their inspiring journey from delivering a nervous school assembly speech to standing in the House of Commons, proving that courage and determination can take you further than you ever imagined. “Take
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A global act of remembrance: how Defence Children Services marked 11 November 2025
Children and staff across Defence Children Services (DCS) schools and settings fell silent on 11 November as they joined the nation in honouring those who have served and sacrificed for their country. From Cyprus to Germany, and across MOD locations worldwide, young people in DCS schools and settings took part in moving commemorations to mark
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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.