Advice for a South African moving to Newcastle

[Talon13]

Hi there
We are moving from Johannesburg South Africa to Newcastle later this year. I have a 14 year old, 13 year old and 2 year old. I have a number of questions and wonder if anyone can assist? My main concern is around the change in schooling, will my children adapt easily, is there anything we can do to prepare them better for the change in curriculum? What do the teenagers do after school, how would I keep them off the streets until I get home in the evening?
Also the cost of childcare for my little one is extremely expensive – are there any suggestions on the best route to go for full time care?
Then also - any recommendations on the best area to live? My daughter is a keen equestrian and we would like to be near the Gosforth area but ideally with a bit of a country feel?
Thank you!

Hi, and welcome to the UK (well, when you get here!),
recommendations on places to live: if you want a bit of a country feel, a really nice place handy for Gosforth is Ponteland. House prices can be a little high but it's a nice village with good schools, and plenty of scope for equestrian activities nearby. :)
The best route for childcare might be to hire a nanny if your income will stretch that far. :)

Hi my apologies for the late response - thank you so much, we have found a place in Gosforth, now to get my kids into a good school!