Support for RAF Families Getting Ready for the New School Year
Written by Ali Stokes, Policy Advisor – Education and Childcare
As the new academic year approaches, many RAF families will be preparing for the start of a new chapter in their educational journey. Whether your child is starting school for the first time, moving to secondary school, beginning college or university, or settling into a new setting after a summer move or posting, a little preparation can help make the transition easier for the whole
For younger children, the Best Start in Life guidance offers practical tips to help families prepare for starting school, including developing independence, establishing routines and building confidence through everyday activities. These simple steps can make a big difference in helping children feel ready for this exciting milestone.
Older children and young people can also benefit from planning ahead. Before term starts, check that you have any uniform, clothing, equipment and stationery you may need, and make sure travel arrangements are in place. Becoming familiar with new routines and expectations can help build confidence and make the first few weeks run more smoothly.
Students preparing to start university may also benefit from some extra preparation before the start of their course, whether they are moving away from home or studying closer to where they live. As well as arranging accommodation and travel, it can be helpful to think about student finance, budgeting, managing day-to-day finances and understanding what support is available from your chosen university. UCAS has a range of resources for students starting higher education, including advice on what to expect, what to pack and how to prepare for study. Their new Budget Calculator can also help students and families understand likely living costs and build a realistic budget before term starts. Parents and carers may also find these resources useful when supporting a young person as they make the transition to university.
For RAF families, the start of term can bring additional considerations particularly for those who have moved during the summer or are adjusting to a new location.
Families may be based across the UK or overseas, and term dates, induction activities and starting arrangements can vary between education settings and locations. Finding out key information in advance can help families feel organised and ready for the new academic year. Many schools, colleges, universities and local authorities publish useful information on their websites, including term dates, induction arrangements and other practical details. These websites can be a helpful first place to look.
If you cannot find the information you need online, consider contacting the setting directly to ask any questions and ensure you are fully prepared for the start of term. As some school and college offices may have reduced staffing or be closed during parts of the summer holiday, it is worth allowing extra time for responses. Wherever you are, establishing routines early and talking positively about the changes ahead can help children and young people feel supported and confident as they start the new academic year.
Help is available
A range of organisations provide information and support to help children, young people and families navigate educational transitions. Families who are adapting to a new school or education setting following a move may find the following resources particularly helpful. The RAF Families Federation website contains information and guidance for Service families navigating education transitions. Little Troopers also offers helpful advice in its Moving Home, Starting a New School resources, designed to support military children and young people as they settle into a new environment.
Families may also find the book recommendations on the Forces Children’s Education website helpful. These books are designed to support children and young people through the experience of moving home and can help start conversations about change, friendships and settling into a new community.
Whatever stage of education your child or young person is entering, planning ahead and making use of the support available can help build confidence, reduce uncertainty and support a positive start to the new academic year for the whole family.
Helpful resources
Best Start in Life: Preparing for School
Practical guidance for parents and carers on helping children get ready to start school, including building independence, confidence and everyday skills.
beststartinlife.gov.uk/preparing-for-school/
RAF Families Federation: Support for Service Children
Information and resources to help Service children and young people thrive throughout their education, including support during school moves, deployments and other aspects of Service life.
raf-ff.org.uk/education/support-service-children/
Little Troopers: Moving Home, Starting a New School
Dedicated advice and resources to help military children and young people prepare for and settle into a new school following a move.
littletroopers.net/moving-home-starting-a-new-school-we-can-help/
Forces Children’s Education: Books to Support Young People When Moving House
A collection of books to help children and young people understand and manage the emotions and challenges associated with moving home and changing schools.
forceschildrenseducation.org.uk/books-for-moving-house/
YoungMinds: Mental Health Support for Children, Young People and Families
Information, advice and support for children, young people, parents and carers on a wide range of mental health and wellbeing topics. The website includes practical guidance and resources to help families navigate periods of change and transition.
youngminds.org.uk/young-person/coping-with-life/problems-at-school/#Copingwithschooltransitions
UCAS: Starting University or College
Comprehensive advice on preparing for higher education, including accommodation, finances, welcome activities and student life.
ucas.com/money-and-student-life/student-life/starting-university-or-college
UCAS: Preparing for Your Studies
A practical checklist covering finance, accommodation, course preparation, study skills and other key steps to help students get ready for university or college.
ucas.com/applying/after-you-apply/clearing-and-results-day/after-results-day/preparing-your-studies
UCAS Budget Calculator
A free tool that helps prospective students estimate living costs, compare different locations and create a personalised budget using real student spending data. Parents and carers may also find it useful when supporting a young person preparing for university.
ucas.com/money-and-student-life/money/budgeting/budget-calculator
