Decisions, decisions...

by Karen Burns

3 weeks into term and it’s sailing by!  Independent Schools tend to have longer holidays than those in the State sector, and for some it’s great, 8 or 9 weeks with the children, lots of fun to be had in our glorious British Summers!

For others, it’s not so easy, there are significant childcare implications and whilst the thought of running round parks and beaches is an idyllic one, for many it can’t be realistic.  So what to do? Summer camps, play-dates, family and friends, perhaps a holiday, all contribute to the many weeks of Summer so many of us would like to relish but practically just can’t.
 
This leads me to another decision, a bigger one, probably one of the most important a parent will make in their child’s upbringing.  Which school should I send my child to? For many, the choice to send their child to an independent school is one of sacrifice and commitment.  I went to an independent school and I enjoyed every minute of it, the facilities, the opportunities, the experiences, they are all things I will never forget.  In those younger years I could not possibly understand what it meant for my parents to send me to that school, it is only now as a parent myself can I begin to understand how big a decision this is.

Amazing opportunities

Independent schools are wonderful places, providing amazing opportunities, but they are not realistically open to all, which is why, when we took the decision to send our son to an independent school it was not one we took lightly.  The thought of school fees for 2 children for the next 18 years, followed by ever increasing further education costs isn’t something that comes easily.

It was my father-in-law who said to me when we were pondering our decision, “I can’t think of a better use of money or investment than your children’s education, if you can make it work, why not?”

He’s right, our children’s education is one of our first and foremost priorities,  along with keeping them safe and happy. We are fortunate that we have been able to take this route, cognisant of the fact that many don’t have this option.  Which is why we want to make the most of every part of this opportunity for our children, to thrive in the outstanding facilities and opportunities that they can create.  

A wonderful journey so far...

We are nearly 2 years into our eldest son’s school journey and not once have we looked back and said we made the wrong decision.  He has come on leaps and bounds in every area.  It is a through school from 3-18 years and the inclusivity right through from the Nursery and Reception children to the Upper Sixth, is abundant; they are all delighted to mix with each other, providing well rounded and balanced children, in awe of each other’s age groups.
​
Yes, it can be financially challenging, holidays may have to wait for now, but when you have a great day at the seaside in the UK with your family, who needs exotic holidays, when instead, we can build a solid foundation for our children?