Forces Families
Barnard Castle School has a long-standing connection with the British Armed Forces. We have been home to military families of all ranks for many decades.
At Barney, we understand that military families face significant challenges in finding a stable educational environment where their children can settle and thrive. Frequent relocations, including overseas deployments, often result in children changing schools multiple times, sometimes across different countries. Such disruptions can have a profound impact on both their academic progress and overall wellbeing.
Barnard Castle School offers a permanent solution. As a warm, friendly and welcoming boarding school, we provide comprehensive pastoral care in an environment where students can excel academically, socially, and emotionally.
At Barney, we go above and beyond to give children of military families the best support possible. This includes our Barney Forces Family (BFF) which offers a nurturing environment for children of parents in the Armed Forces to come together, to support one another and to enjoy time together.
Supporting our students and their families is at the heart of everything we do. Our boarding staff are committed to exceeding expectations—something our families consistently recognise. We strive to help our students discover their unique strengths and talents while holding ourselves to the highest standards in the care and services we provide.
Our boarding houses are known for their warm atmosphere and the open, consistent communication between staff and parents. Our team has extensive experience in supporting military families, including those who are new to boarding school life.
From ages 11 to 18, we nurture and challenge each student, helping them to uncover their potential, pursue their passions, and excel both in and out of the classroom. Our goal is to develop confident, well-rounded individuals equipped with the life skills they need to make a positive difference in the world.
For more information about our boarding options and how Barnard Castle School could be the right choice for your family, contact admissions@barneyschool.org.uk or attend one of our open days. We look forward to welcoming you.
The Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA)
The CEA is intended for military families to ensure their children receive appropriate education from a consistent source.
It is awarded to serving forces’ personnel to fund access to high quality boarding provision for their children, acknowledging the importance for children of remaining in one school, enjoying stability both in terms of education and care.
What is the purpose of the allowance?
- The main purpose of the CEA is to help military families and their children:
- Receive consistent education,
- Develop close relationships with their peers and teachers,
- Become a part of a community,
- Provide support to military families that might otherwise struggle with caring for their children.
Who can apply for the CEA?
Personnel from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, British Army and Royal Air Force are all eligible to receive support from the CEA.
To read the full regulations and requirements for CEA eligibility, please refer to the JSP 752, Chapter 14, Paragraph 14.0115.
In short, military families claiming the CEA must remain living together, be expected to relocate within the next four years, and agree that once a school is chosen the child must remain there until at least the end of their current stage of education.
You can begin your application by submitting a CEA application Form to the CEAS – the Children’s Education Advisory Service. When your application has been accepted, you can then apply to boarding schools like Barnard Castle School.
For an update on our CEA funding model, please download the document below:
To register interest, please fill out the form below:
