Overview

This bill aims to give children of UK military personnel serving in the UK the highest priority for school admission, equal to that of children in care, removing any application deadlines that don't consider the needs of military families who move frequently at short notice.

Description

The Children of Armed Services Personnel (Schools Admission) Bill amends the School Standards and Framework Act 1998. It mandates the Secretary of State to change the School Admissions Code by January 1st, 2018. These changes will ensure that:

• Children of UK military personnel serving in the UK receive top priority for school places, matching the priority given to looked-after children.
• Application timetables are flexible enough to accommodate the frequent moves of military families.
• The definition of "school age child" includes those of compulsory school age and those under 19 in full-time education.

The bill applies to England and Wales and will come into force the day after receiving Royal Assent.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending. The costs will likely involve amending the School Admissions Code and potentially supporting local authorities in implementing the changes. No figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

The bill primarily affects:

• Children of UK military personnel serving in the UK: They will receive higher priority for school admission.
• Schools in England and Wales: They will need to adjust their admissions processes to comply with the new legislation.
• Local authorities: They will be responsible for implementing the changes and may face additional administrative burdens.
• Other children applying for school places: Potentially a slight reduction in the number of available places for other children, depending on the number of military children requiring places.

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