Moving to EU, need suggestions on location/international schools please

[SpringSunshineinCannes]

We’ve been talking about moving to continental Europe as a family for quite a few years. This year we can finally do it due to DH’s work changing. I can also work there but plan to go very part time, maybe retire! We have EU passports.

Dd is in year 11 so it’s a good opportunity to move this summer as she will change schools anyway. Ds is in year 8 so prior to GCSEs. Eldest Dd already at university in uk but is planning a masters at a European university. Kids are excited and onboard, we have lived away from uk before and it just feels like the right time for us.

We can move anywhere but would prefer France or Netherlands because we have links to those countries (family live there).

I’ve been researching international schools and have submitted applications at a couple. Just wondering if anyone can recommend any International schools and/or areas. I’m planning to rent at first anyway.

If your DD just wants to do the 2 years for sixth form in France, then you’ve got the choice of the British School in Paris in Croissy, where she could do A levels. She (and you) would have the most awesome social life, as the school is incredible at inserting newcomers. My son doesn’t go there (£££) but the majority of my friends have kids there and I owe practically my whole social life to them!

There is also Ermitage Int school in Maisons Lafitte. Beautiful town and on the RER A so great connections. The school has two streams; international baccalaureate (more expensive) and the French bac, depending on amount of French spoken. So options for both kids.

There are also French state schools in La Celle St Cloud which have an international section, which might suit your DS.

Is the hobby fencing? My son took it up when we arrived in France, and he really enjoys it. Where I live (western suburbs just outside Paris and close to Croissy/Saint Germain en Laye) is awash with fencing clubs.

Depending on ages, there is also the British Scouts. My son goes to the group that meets at the British School (don’t need to attend there); and Maisons Lafitte also has their own group. They do loads of activities and kids already doing it in the UK get automatic entry.

It’s equestrian 🐴. I think my ds would enjoy fencing.

The British school is €€€ and I think I’d rather be west anyway.