Schools and early education providers from across Rutland have pledged to do all they can to support the county's armed forces community by signing the national Armed Forces Covenant.

Representatives from 14 local schools and early years' settings gathered at Greetham Valley Hotel to take part in a special conference focused on meeting the needs of pupils from armed forces families.

The conference was organised by Rutland County Council and North Yorkshire County Council as part of an ongoing education partnership that has been developed over the past year.

Attendees were welcomed by Matt Blyton, Senior Education Adviser at North Yorkshire County Council, and Coun Ian Razzell, a retired Army Officer and Armed Forces Champion for Rutland County Council.

Dr Sarah Furness, Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, also added her support and thanked attendees for their commitment to supporting children, young people and their families.

The day was then spent discussing key issues relating to the needs of students from armed forces families.

The aim of the conference was to identify new ways to improve the education environment for armed forces pupils.

Schools' representatives were then invited to sign the Armed Forces Covenant, which shows that a community is willing to do everything possible to provide help, advice and support to members of the armed forces.

In return, the armed forces promises to do all it can to support their community and promote activity that integrates the service community into civilian life.

The covenant also recognises and remembers sacrifices faced by the armed force community. This includes in-service and ex-service personnel and their families.

Coun David Wilby, Cabinet Member for Education at Rutland County Council, closed the conference and said: "We owe a huge debt of gratitude to members of the armed forces for all they do to protect us and keep our nation safe.

"In recognition of their commitment and sacrifice, the Armed Forces Covenant is a promise that organisations and communities will do everything possible to support the armed forces.

"I can think of no greater responsibility than ensuring forces children receive the best possible education, tailored to their individual needs.

"As a parent and former member of the armed forces, I would like to personally commend the schools that signed up to the covenant as part of last month's conference.

"We will continue to work to together to make sure every child in Rutland can learn, excel and achieve their full potential."

For more information about support for the armed forces in Rutland and to learn more about the Armed Forces Community Covenant click on the red button below.