Supporting Armed Forces Families

At Lord Wandsworth College, we are proud to support the men and women who serve in the Armed Forces and the families who stand alongside them.

Supporting continuity, belonging and opportunity for service families, with only a 10% parental contribution for those receiving CEA.

A School That Understands Service Life

At Lord Wandsworth College, we are proud to support the men and women who serve in the Armed Forces and the families who stand alongside them.

As a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, we recognise the unique demands placed on service families. We also welcome enquiries from families working in UK government roles overseas, such as the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, where similar education allowances may apply. Frequent postings, deployments and uncertainty can make educational continuity difficult. For many years, boarding schools have played an important role in providing stability during these times.

At LWC, we are committed to doing exactly that.

Set within 1,200 acres of beautiful Hampshire countryside, our College offers a vibrant community where pupils feel known, supported and inspired to flourish. For Armed Forces families seeking consistency, belonging and opportunity, Lord Wandsworth College provides a welcoming and secure home from home.

Just 10% of Fees for Families Receiving CEA

Families eligible for the Ministry of Defence Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA) pay only 10% of the full boarding fee at Lord Wandsworth College.

CEA is designed to help service families maintain continuity of schooling despite postings. Under the scheme, families contribute a minimum parental share of 10% of school fees.

At LWC, we support Armed Forces families by ensuring that only this minimum parental contribution is required, helping make a Lord Wandsworth College education accessible to those who serve.

Our Admissions team is experienced in supporting families through the CEA process and will be very happy to guide you through each step.

A Genuine Home from Home

Boarding at Lord Wandsworth College is built around community, care and belonging.

Our boarding houses provide a warm and supportive environment where pupils quickly form friendships and feel part of something special. Experienced houseparents and pastoral teams understand the realities of life for Armed Forces families and provide consistent support and encouragement.

Evenings and weekends are full of activity, from sport and outdoor adventure to creative pursuits and social time with friends. Pupils grow in confidence and independence while always knowing they have adults around them who care deeply about their well-being.

Widening Worlds

Life at LWC is about more than academic success. It is about opening doors, expanding horizons and helping young people discover who they are and what they can become.

From outstanding sport and performing arts to leadership opportunities, outdoor education and service, pupils are encouraged to explore widely and develop the skills and character that will serve them well in life.

For families whose lives already involve service and commitment, this spirit of purpose often resonates deeply.

Continuity, Wherever You Are Posted

We understand that Armed Forces life can involve sudden changes and unexpected moves.

Our Admissions team works closely with service families to make the admissions process as straightforward and supportive as possible, whether you are planning ahead or responding to a new posting.

We regularly welcome pupils joining from overseas bases and from across the UK, and our community is well accustomed to helping new pupils settle quickly and feel part of the College.

Frequently Asked Questions

What discount do Armed Forces families receive at Lord Wandsworth College?

Families eligible for the Ministry of Defence Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA) pay only 10% of the full boarding fee at Lord Wandsworth College. CEA covers the majority of the cost of boarding school fees, with families required to contribute a minimum parental share of 10%. At LWC, we ensure that families receiving CEA pay only this minimum contribution.

What is the Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA)?

The Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA) is a Ministry of Defence scheme that helps children from Armed Forces families remain in the same school despite parental postings. It contributes towards the cost of boarding school fees so that pupils can maintain stability and continuity in their education.

Does Lord Wandsworth College accept CEA?

Yes. Lord Wandsworth College welcomes pupils from Armed Forces families and supports those who are eligible for the Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA). Our Admissions team has experience helping families through the process and can guide you through the necessary steps.

Why do many Armed Forces families choose boarding schools?

Boarding schools often provide an important sense of stability and continuity for children whose parents may be posted to different locations or overseas. At Lord Wandsworth College, our strong boarding community, pastoral care and supportive house structure provide a consistent home environment where pupils feel secure and connected.

Can children join LWC while families are posted overseas?

Yes. Pupils can join Lord Wandsworth College while their parents are stationed overseas. Our boarding houses provide a supportive and welcoming environment that helps pupils quickly settle into life at the College.

What boarding options are available?

Lord Wandsworth College offers a range of boarding options designed to suit different families, including full, weekly and flexi boarding. Our Admissions team would be happy to discuss which option might work best for your family.

Who should I contact about joining from a Forces family?

Our Admissions team would be delighted to speak with you about availability, the CEA process and life at Lord Wandsworth College. Feel free to give us a call on 01256 862201 or drop us a line at admissions@lordwandsworth.org

Do you support families working overseas for the UK government?

Yes. While the Continuity of Education Allowance is primarily a Ministry of Defence scheme for Armed Forces families, a small number of UK government roles posted overseas may receive comparable education allowances.

Life at LWC

Watch Film

“As a military family we have moved frequently, but LWC has given our children the stability and sense of belonging we were hoping for.”

Former Parent of two pupils at LWC

Find out more

Speak to our Admissions team today or arrange a visit to experience life at Lord Wandsworth College.