Army HIVE Info

August 25, 2026

Defence Children Services students celebrate 2026 exam results

Students at Defence Children Services secondary schools have been celebrating throughout August, with many progressing to university, military careers and apprenticeships. Read more about this year's results at Queen Victoria School, King Richard School and St John's School:

Defence Children Services students celebrate 2026 exam results

Northern Ireland: Back To School Contact Information

BACK TO SCHOOL CONTACT INFORMATION

With the new school term about to start, the Education Authority NI (EANI) have published contact details for any queries you may have in relation to Special Educational Needs (SEN) services, Free school meals and uniform grant, Home to School Transport, School Admissions and General enquiries.

Please see Useful Back to School contact information which can be accessed by the link below:

Back to School | Education Authority Northern Ireland

August 24, 2026

Catterick: Your Weekly Baby Social Hub - Every Tues

A cosy weekly space for you and your little one

A relaxed, welcoming group for new parents to breathe, connect and feel supported. Come together with others in those early whirlwind months, share what you’re going through, and find guidance when you need it.

No pressure, no expectations; just a warm space that shapes itself around you.

Whether you want company, reassurance, practical tips or simply a quiet moment; you’re always welcome.

Come as you are. Leave feeling a little lighter.

Starting on Tuesday 8th September

9:15-11:45

Colburn Children & Family Hub, DL9 4RF

Feel free to contact us for more info, or just turn up on the day.

We look forward to meeting you and your little one.

Information provided by North HVIE Hub

London: Zoo Lodges Stay over at London Zoo

Set in the heart of London Zoo, enjoy an overnight escape from the bustle of London without even leaving the city, and discover what happens at the Zoo after dark.

Join us for exclusive after-hours tours before bedding down for the night in a private lodge, within roaring distance of our Asiatic lion pride. With both adult and family night options available you can plan an amazing staycation or zoo sleepover, perfect for animal lovers!

Click HERE for further information

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Department for Work & Pensions: Latest roundup of news – 21 Aug 26

Department for Work and Pensions (including Jobcentre Plus) arrangements for Monday 31 August bank holiday

Department for Work and Pensions (including Jobcentre Plus) arrangements are different for 31 August bank holiday:

England, Scotland and Wales

On Monday 31 August offices and phone lines are closed

To make sure people get their payment on a day when our offices are open, arrangements have been made to make some payments early.

If the expected payment date is Monday 31 August, then benefits will be on Friday 28 August.

If the expected payment date is not shown, customers will get their money on their usual payment date.

Free bus travel 24/7 for disabled people

From 1 April 2027, people who hold a disabled bus pass can travel on buses for free, no matter the time of day. This extra support will help to open up access to workplaces, education, training, and other opportunities as well as giving people breathing space on the cost of living and putting money back in people’s pockets.

Currently, disabled bus passes are only valid for travel between 9.30am and 11pm during weekdays, unless local authorities choose to fund an extension.

Read the press release

Government invests in young people with more opportunities close to home

Thousands more young people will be able to gain the skills, qualifications and experience they need for future careers, as part of a major package to break down barriers stopping access to technical education, training, and apprenticeships.

The package includes: A new bursary, worth up to £4,500 per year per household, that will remove a barrier that can otherwise discourage young people from taking up an apprenticeship, helping them build the skills and independence that lead to long-term, well-paid work. Thousands more college places to expand access to skills and training close to home. Free apprenticeship training for all eligible under-25s from August, up to £8,000 in support for SMEs hiring young apprentices, and National Insurance Contributions relief for apprentices under 25 will help deliver 50,000 new youth apprenticeships.

Find out more