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Forces and FCDO Families: CEA Boarding at OBH

Stability for Your Child’s Education

If you are a Military or Diplomatic family, you may find that your children have to change schools more frequently than you would prefer due to relocations. At Old Buckenham Hall (OBH), we recognise the unique challenges you face. We have a long tradition of supporting families like yours, providing the stability and continuity children need to thrive throughout their prep school years.

Enhanced CEA Support - 10% Parental Contribution

For entry in September 2026 and beyond, currently serving members of HM Armed Forces or the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) who are in receipt of the Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA) are eligible for our Enhanced Fee Remission.

We are pleased to provide this remission to ensure that families are only required to pay the minimum 10% parental contribution of the published gross full boarding fee. We value our Service and Diplomatic families, and this significant reduction in school fees is a reflection of our commitment to supporting those who serve.

Military Personnel Discount

For those not in receipt of CEA, we offer a 20% reduction of the school fee for children of currently serving members of HM Armed Forces. We are committed to ensuring an OBH education is accessible to the wider military community, providing a consistent and ambitious environment for your child.

The Boarding Pathway to Rugby School

As a member of the Rugby School Group, we are also delighted to facilitate a seamless boarding pathway for families seeking long-term stability. Rugby School supports families in receipt of Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA) who have progressed from OBH.

To be eligible for continued allowance-linked financial support at Rugby School, students must have attended Old Buckenham Hall for at least two years. This transition is subject to Rugby School’s standard admissions and entry criteria. Final decisions regarding entry and financial support remain at the discretion of the Head Master of Rugby School.

Why Choose OBH?

  • An Adventure in Education: 85 acres of Suffolk parkland providing a reliable foundation from which your child can thrive.

  • Academic & Sporting Ambition: 31 scholarships secured in 2025 (from a cohort of 41 pupils) across a wide range of academic and co-curricular disciplines.

  • A Phone-Free World: An immersive environment focused on face-to-face connection and real-life adventure.

  • Bespoke Boarding: Newly refurbished dorms designed as welcoming, "home-from-home" spaces, launching Easter 2026.

CEA Explained: Supporting Military Families

The primary objective of the CEA boarding school allowance is to provide support to children from military and diplomatic families, enabling them to maintain a consistent education. Administered by the Ministry of Defence (MOD), this allowance is available to eligible individuals and helps finance their enrolment in leading boarding schools like Old Buckenham Hall. By ensuring uninterrupted education, it allows parents to fulfil their duties while their children receive a stable and continuous learning experience during crucial stages of their growth and development.

Arrange a Personal Visit or Virtual Meeting

To discuss next steps, please contact our Head of Admissions, Lucy Dyson.