Overview

This bill aims to give children of UK military personnel serving in the UK higher priority for school admission, similar to that given to looked-after children. It seeks to ensure these children aren't disadvantaged by the frequent moves required of their families.

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 grant children of serving UK military personnel:

• The same school admission priority as looked-after children (the highest priority).
• Flexibility in application timing to account for the often short-notice moves required by military service.

The bill applies to children of compulsory school age and those under 19 pursuing full-time education. Its scope covers England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The costs will likely involve amending the School Admissions Code and potentially administrative changes to support the new admission priority. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Children of UK military personnel serving in the UK: These children will benefit from higher school admission priority and more flexible application processes.
• Schools in England and Wales: Schools will need to adjust their admissions procedures to accommodate the new priority given to military children.
• Local authorities: Local authorities responsible for school admissions will need to implement the changes mandated by the bill.
• Other applicants for school places: While the bill prioritizes military children, it doesn't exclude other children, meaning potential competition for places might increase in certain areas.

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