Moving your family overseas for work can be a rewarding but challenging experience so our team of international education consultants are here to provide some helpful advice. Take a look below at some of the pros and cons to review when thinking about making the move.
Pros: | |
Cultural exposure | You and your family will have the opportunity to immerse yourselves in a new culture and gain a deeper understanding of the world. |
Career opportunities | Overseas assignments can provide career growth and new professional experiences. |
Personal growth | It can be a chance for personal growth and increased independence. |
Adventure | Living in a new country can be an exciting adventure for the whole family. |
Cons: | |
Family separation | Depending on the nature of the work, family members may be separated for extended periods. |
Cultural adjustment | Adapting to a new culture can be challenging and stressful. |
Education | Ensuring your children receive a quality education can be a concern, especially if you're frequently moving. |
Helping children settle and making friends as an expat
To help your children settle and make friends in a new country, consider the following strategies:
Enrol them in local activities
Encourage participation in sports, clubs, or hobbies that interest them to meet local peers.
Support their social skills
Teach them how to initiate conversations and make friends, which is a valuable skill in any situation.
Connect with other expats
Connect with other expat families who understand the challenges of living abroad and can provide support.
Maintain consistent communication
Keep lines of communication open with your children, allowing them to express their feelings and concerns.
Education in British international schools vs. British schools in the UK
Education in British international schools overseas typically follow a British curriculum, but may have some differences, such as a more diverse student body and a focus on international perspectives. Here are some distinctions to understand and consider.
Diversity
International schools often have a more diverse student population, exposing students to various cultures and languages. Boarding schools have many more British students, though they do have children from many countries worldwide.
Curriculum adaptations
Some international schools may adapt the British curriculum to accommodate the needs of their international student body.
Extra-curricular activities
International schools may offer unique extracurricular activities or opportunities for cultural exchange.
Class sizes
Class sizes may vary, with some international schools having larger class sizes due to high demand. British private boarding schools often cap classes at around 20. Some sixth form classes can be substantially smaller depending on the subject. One-to-one support for those with learning needs can often be better in British boarding schools.
Cultural exposure
International schools provide an environment where students can immerse themselves in the culture of their host country.
Choosing the right school
Ultimately, the choice between a British international school overseas and a British school in the UK depends on your family's specific circumstances and priorities, including the duration of your overseas assignment and your educational preferences.
Any choice of school always starts with what is best for each child, and then what is feasible bearing in mind the family circumstances. Seeking help and advice with this often tricky decision is always a good idea.
Our team of international education consultants are here to help
Our friendly, expert team can help you to make these difficult decisions. By working with your family, we can discover what the best option is for your specific circumstances. Navigating the education system can be confusing, so our team is here to help, contact us today.