Should I Move DD Schools?

[LoveMyDaughterT]

I’m really in two minds here and I’m getting really down about the decision. I know most will just say ‘move her schools’ but I want people to understand other parts too as to not move her.

DD has just started year 1. The school is fantastic, my DD settled well, has lots of friends and is very happy. No bullying and the teachers are amazing. The mums are also lovely, I know it’s hard to believe but our year group, the parents all get on so well. Reception class we all supported each other settling in and being one out of three single mums, they all accept me and supported me. I lived 20 minute walk from there. I then had to move house as my landlord was selling. I moved 4 miles away into a mother and child shared accommodation as no landlords would take me even though I had a good reference and my mum was guarantor. This new house is linked with the council so I won’t be here more than 3 years until I can get a council house. I was told by council I could possibly be moving back to the area I was in as they said that area is low demand compared to where I am now is high demand, it just depends where houses come up. I am quite high up the list on the bidding system for a council house and in a high band. I also work at my DD’s school but only at lunchtimes. I love the support they offer to staff as well and if more hours came up for another role I would take it.

However, I know I am going to be using 2-3 tanks of petrol a month. That doesn’t just include school runs, it’s food shop and appointments in various places around the borough. I can’t change where these appointments are. I know the cost of petrol is going to use up all my wages for the month. I do have money left over from other sources of income, Child Tax and Income Support. The Father isn’t around and I get no financial help from him so no support from that side.

Do I move her schools or stay? I struggle with making friends so the fact I’ve got a lot of friends up the current school with the mums and also staff from working is a big thing for me. Mine and my DD’s happiness is very important to me. My DD found moving house over whelming so I don’t want to put her through anything else at 5 years old. It’s literally money in the future I am worried about.

[LoveMyDaughterT]

Has anyone been in a similar situation?

[BogglesGoggles]

Is it possible to cycle? Or public transport? Also might be worth asking whether your DD qualifies for transport.

[TheBrockmans]

Is there any chance you could cycle with a trail gator to pull DD along. Even if you don't do it every day it will cut down the cost. You could get bikes second hand or sometimes free on Facebook/ Freecycle etc.

Can you work more hours near the school, either in the school or somewhere close so you earn a little more and you don't need to go and come back. Or volunteer in the school to gain more experience and reduce the number of journeys.

[glitterfarts]

no, in those circumstances, I'd do my best to stay. For YOUR sake.
Now she is in school, and you are working there, you might be able to grab a TA role when one comes up.