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Secondary education

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Would it be mad to move abroad and back during GCSEs and A Levels?

54 replies

SongsOfSongs · 27/02/2026 10:41

I have 2 DDs. DH has just heard of a possible job offer abroad (Asia) that would be for ~3 years. If we moved, DD1 would do Y9-Y11 and GCSEs abroad, but would return for sixth form. DD2 would do Y7-Y9 abroad and would return for GCSEs. Would this be terrible?

We moved from our home country when they were 5 and 3, and they changed schools when starting Y5 and Y3, so they've already had a bit of upheaval and change in their lives, but plenty of families move more I would think. I wouldn't have them move mid-GCSEs or A Levels, but in between. Would this work out ok or are there more difficulties than I realise?

We really enjoy living in the UK, but despite DH making pretty good money (I'm disabled and thus cannot work), we cannot afford to buy a home here. We hope that going away for a few years with higher pay and lower taxes may allow us to return and live a more comfortable life.

OP posts:
ShanghaiDiva · 27/02/2026 21:08

SongsOfSongs · 27/02/2026 21:06

Oh yes, we literally just heard about this today and were going back and forth about whether or not it would be viable for the children. If we decide it is, we'll get into all of the details to see if it makes sense.

will the company pay for you to fly out and look at schools/accommodation etc before you make a decision?

curious79 · 27/02/2026 21:09

Great to move, but personally I would want it to be for a bit longer given the settling in period

SongsOfSongs · 27/02/2026 21:44

ShanghaiDiva · 27/02/2026 21:08

will the company pay for you to fly out and look at schools/accommodation etc before you make a decision?

No idea - we're not to that point yet. But I would think so.

OP posts:
TheDaysAreGettingLongerAtLast · 27/02/2026 22:24

Sounds like a fantastic opportunity for all the family.

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