ADES establishes website to support Service families relocating to Scotland

July 23, 2026

Serving families who relocated to Scotland faced challenges accessing information about schools and education support.

What was the situation?

Service families are often required to relocate with the Armed Forces. When relocating, they are likely to need information about schools, accommodation, and the support available in their new area. The Association of Directors of Education in Scotland (ADES) established that families relocating to Scotland were finding it difficult to locate the information they needed during the transition process, as this information was spread across a number of different websites.

What made this Covenant disadvantage?

As Service families are likely to relocate with the Armed Forces more frequently than civilian families, they may need to access information about schools and education systems more often than civilians. Having to navigate a large amount of different information can make transitions more challenging for Service families. They are less likely to know about local services and support than civilian families, who are not required to relocate as often.

What was done to help?

The Association of Directors of Education in Scotland identified the need for a dedicated website to support Service families moving into, around and out of Scottish schools. They created the Forces Children’s Education website that would link to local authorities and related sources of information and support, including information about accommodation, communities, and local schools.

You can view the website here: https://forceschildrenseducation.org.uk/

What was the outcome?

The website acts as a first point of contact for Service families, simplifying the process of finding out important information. This helps Service families better navigate school transitions, and ensures they have all the information they need.

Wider information

You can read more widely about:

• Covenant disadvantage and special provision (the two types of case study in this database)
• Covenant support for the Armed Forces community: Education
• How schools can support the Armed Forces community and implement the Covenant

Disclaimer: This case study is part of the Covenant case study database. The database has been developed to illustrate examples of good practice for organisations in scope of the Covenant. It is intended to act as a guide for good delivery, providing practical insight into how fairness for the Armed Forces community can be achieved. Delivery of the Covenant may vary across the UK. This means there is no guarantee the solution outlined in this case study is available in your area.