DCS Schools & Settings Staff Induction Hub

Welcome to DCS Schools and Settings and to the unique and rewarding world of Defence Children Services (DCS). We are delighted to have you join our team, and we look forward to supporting you as you settle into your new role. Whether you are new to teaching in a Ministry of Defence (MOD) context or simply new to our school, this induction page is designed to help you navigate the exciting opportunities and challenges ahead.

Who are we?

Defence Children Services (DCS) is a unique organisation that provides high-quality education and support to children of Service personnel and MOD families stationed around the world. Our schools operate at the intersection of MOD Policy and Procedure, Department for Education (DfE) direction, and Civil Service frameworks, creating a distinctive environment that blends military values, educational excellence, and public service ethos.

Our mission is to ensure that every child in our care receives the best possible education and support, no matter where their family is posted. As a teacher with DCS, you will play a vital role in achieving this mission.

What makes us different?

Working with DCS is unlike teaching in a typical UK school. Here are some key aspects of our environment that you’ll find unique:

  • A Global Perspective: Our schools are often located in diverse and dynamic settings, serving children from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. This global perspective enriches our curriculum and teaching practices.
  • A Mobile Community: Many of our pupils come from military families and may move schools frequently due to postings. This requires a flexible and inclusive approach to teaching, with a focus on continuity and adaptability.
  • A Collaborative Culture: Our staff work within a framework that combines MOD, DfE, and Civil Service ideologies. This means you’ll be part of a multidisciplinary team that values collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility.
  • A Strong Support Network: We understand the unique challenges of working in a Defence context, and we are committed to providing you with the training, resources, and support you need to thrive.

Your induction journey

To help you settle in, we have designed an induction programme that will guide you through every aspect of your new role. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Welcome and orientation: An introduction to your school or setting, DCS values and strategy, and the wider DCS community.
  2. Policies and procedures: Familiarisation with key policies, including safeguarding, health and safety, and MOD-specific protocols. You’ll also receive guidance on navigating the Civil Service Code and MOD regulations.
  3. Professional development: Access to tailored training sessions that will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a Defence education setting.
  4. Mentorship and support: You’ll be paired with an experienced colleague who will act as your mentor, providing advice and support as you settle into your role.
  5. Community integration: Opportunities to connect with colleagues, pupils, and parents, and to learn more about the unique needs of our Defence community.

Key resources

To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of essential resources:

  • Staff Handbooks: Your go-to guide for school policies, procedures, and day-to-day operations. See the Welcome and Orientation section.
  • Education & Care Strategy: An overview of the DCS’s strategy to develop education and support the care of all children within our care.
  • Professional Development Portal (Via MS Teams): Access to training materials, e-learning modules, and CPD opportunities. Ask your Head Teacher or Setting Manager for access.
  • Wellbeing Support: Information on the support services available to staff, including mental health resources and MOD-specific benefits.

Our commitment to you

At DCS, we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every member of staff feels valued and empowered. We recognise the unique challenges of working in a Defence context, and we are here to help you every step of the way.

We are thrilled to have you on board and can’t wait to see the positive impact you will make on our pupils and our community. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your line manager or your Pillar Assistant Head.

Welcome to the team!

Thank you for choosing to join Defence Children Services. Together, we will continue to provide outstanding education and support to the children of our service personnel, ensuring they thrive no matter where in the world they are.

We look forward to working with you and wish you every success in your new role.

Welcome and orientation

Policies and procedures

You can find all DCS policies and procedures on the DCS Policy page (under construction).

Professional development

Your Head Teacher or Setting Manager will arrange for you to have a professional buddy to help you settle into the first few weeks of life at your DCS School or Setting.

Mentorship and support

You’ll be paired with an experienced colleague who will act as your mentor, providing advice and support as you settle into your role.

Your Teaching and Learning Advisor (Debbie or Cheryse) will provide you with access to the Teams site which has a range of subject leader and best practice info to support you in your role. You Line Manager will provide you with localised information and support any aspect of your role which is unique to the location you are stationed in. The teams site will also give you access to DCS CPD material. 

Wellbeing support 

As a member of the Civil Service you have access to a wide range of wellbeing related materials and support. This includes the following: