How important is continuity in early years

[Goldenperfume]

Hi

We are looking at prep schools for our children to start in September and have identified one in our current local area and one in an area we would like to move to. Unfortunately my husband is not happy with his job and in the process of looking for another but I’m not sure how long it will take, so this makes moving house a bit tricky right now.

I’m keen that once they start a school they stay in it until they are ready for senior school, whereas my husband thinks moving them at such a young age is fine. I’m not sure if he really understands that it can be difficult to get places, get through assessments, find a school that can take both etc.

We do have the option to move in with parents (who live close to where we would ultimately like to move) until we are in a position to move.

Is it disruptive and difficult to move children in the early years or am I overthinking it?

My personal experience is that it depends on their age. Below 7, its fine. 8-9, very tricky. Then fine again at 10 if its in preparation for Secondary school. (Weve had several moves due to DHs job)

However its also a game of luck, as you never know how friendship groups will work out or what spaces their will be. Or if a pandemic will get in the way of them settling. However, there's no guarantees on friendships anyway... my child who is still struggling 18 months after a move went into a class who apparently have never gelled and kids whove been there since 4yo have similar problems.

There are two issues:

1. The hassle you describe. This is arguably easier in the independent sector, as you can apply for schools regardless of where you live but of course competition can be harder for occasional places, depending on the school. This is your issue more than your kids issue, although they will be affected if you can't get places.
2. Children having to change schools. IMO most children should cope ok with a school move in childhood. (Multiple moves is harder). Generally younger seems to be better. Of course there are always exceptions to this.

Personally I would be very reluctant to move in with parents with no specific plan in place. You could end up there for years or could end up buying somewhere that is not convenient for the school you chose. I would be inclined to start them where you live now and see how things go. Also chat to the school you like in the new area about common entrance points, occasional places etc, so you can have some idea. I would (sadly) expect more places may come up as some people's finances are stretched.

It is fine but bear in mind you need to give a full term's notice of leaving , usually before term starts, to avoid fees in lieu.

Yeah it seems like it isn’t as much of an issue for children in terms of settling as I had imagined. I think being able to get places for two children at a school I like could be challenging. It’s probably easier to get spaces at sought after schools in Reception. This isn’t one of those register at birth London preps but it’s still a very good one. I don’t really want us to be stuck in this house for the next 7 years or so and I don’t want to have to put them in another prep which I’m not as keen on, which is why staying with parents temporarily is tempting.