DH and I are considering allowing our DD(11) to begin boarding in September at a girls school. DD has expressed an interest in this and I was always against it thinking she may not cope emotionally (translated I would constantly worry) but a few things have come to mind after thinking it over and I think we now have to give it serious consideration.
The school is just under an hour from our home but we will be flying out to Australia soon to live for 3-5 years with DH's work. This is where my concern comes in. Grandma and Nanny/Grandad will be here for her to spend weekends with but we would want her to be with us during holidays etc which would mean a lot of long distance flying for her in the year. This would equate to around 15 weeks a year with us. She already does quite a bit of flying with us through the year visiting family across the country so is used to travelling but not long distance. Our preference is take take her with us but she has asked us to consider boarding for her as we will be returning to the UK within 3-5 years and she doesn't want to come really and lose her life here for that period of time. I want to bring her with us to Australia and will do if after all consideration it is best for DD but I feel we ought to give her wishes some thought in relation to this.
Does anyone have any experience of similar situations? If so what were the pitfalls for your child, how did/do they cope and although every situation is unique do you regret your decision? We just want what is best for DD and she has agreed that she will come with us if we believe boarding is not for her but she just wants to know we have seriously considered her request.
So now I am looking for your boarding experiences - please! 