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Image by freepikSending your child overseas for studies is a big decision. Parents want the best education for their daughter or son, as well as an opportunity to experience new friendships and greater independence. However, it is only human to feel anxious about them being so far from home.
There are many things to think about before their journey begins, from the school and housing to who will support them in your absence.
For those who do not live in the UK, it is important that they prepare for more than just the school application and that their child has a reliable support network to ensure they feel confident and prepared for the new environment.
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Who Will Look After Your Child in the UK?
One of the most important questions for parents to ask themselves is who their child can trust if something were to happen.
While a boarding school experience can provide excellent support for students throughout term, there may be times when your child needs someone to look after them outside of school.
Whether it be illness, travel problems, school holidays or a change to their accommodation, having a local contact could be invaluable.
Educational guardianship in the UK can help overseas families to find a local contact who may act as a representative to the school. As well as providing transport and welfare support.
Some boarding schools also require international students under the age of 18 to have a local guardian based in the UK. Therefore parents should be aware of any additional costs and ask the school what they provide.
Having a reliable guardian could provide much needed reassurance to parents and their children.
Choosing a School That Suits Your Child
While grades are undoubtedly important, parents should consider more than just the academic grades when choosing a school for their child.
They will need to think about their daughter or son’s interests, preferred working style and the types of facilities and pastoral care that would suit them best.
Some students enjoy the busy atmosphere of a large boarding school. Whilst others may prefer the more personal environment of a smaller establishment.
Visiting or video calling the school can also allow your child to ask specific questions as they prepare for their new experience.
Parents should also consider the level of international support the school can provide. This could include language assistance and advice on transitioning between different schooling systems. All these things can greatly impact their child during their first few months.
Help Your Child Prepare for Academic Changes
Adjusting to a new education system can be challenging, even for high achieving students.
The teaching style, homework and examination styles may differ greatly from what they are used to, as well as requiring them to be more confident with speaking and asking for help.
As a parent you can encourage responsibility and organisational skills at home, such as a weekly planner and encouraging your child to take their own books and resources to and from school.
A Rose Tinted World has an excellent article on how to motivate your children to do well in school which suggests ways parents can encourage their children to have responsibility and homework routines without putting too much pressure on them.
This can be especially useful for a student who is preparing to live away from home for the first time.
Talk About Homesickness Before They Leave
While it is understandable that your child will most likely feel thrilled to experience a new country, it is important to remember that homesickness is common, especially as they adjust to a new curriculum, school system and way of living.
Students will also be exposed to new teachers, accommodation, cuisine and possibly even rooming with other students for the first time.
Instead of reassuring them that everything will be fine, parents can instead discuss the homesickness they may feel and encourage them to bring comfort items from home and participate as much as possible in school activities such as joining clubs and playing sports with their new friends.
Having a schedule to talk to you can also be a useful reassurance, although children should be encouraged to find their own confidence and independence at their new school.
Understand the School Holiday Arrangements
Some parents are surprised to find out that a school may close their boarding houses for certain breaks, such as half-term holidays, exeat weekends or longer breaks.
Students who are unable to travel back to the UK will need to make alternative arrangements.
Parents should request the school’s holiday calendar before term starts and understand who will be responsible for transport and any changes to their child’s accommodation during these periods.
They should also consider who can react to any changes in their travel plans.
It is important not to leave these arrangements until the last minute.
Teach Everyday Independence
While studying overseas can give your child the chance to be more independent, it is a gradual process that they will need to build up their skills for.
Before they leave for their overseas experience, encourage them to be more responsible with everyday activities. This includes organisation, pocket money and preparing for the next school day.
Older children should also practice booking appointments, planning their journeys and communicating with adults if they need any support.
It is also an important life skill to remember that asking for help or advice is a good way to solve a problem. Indeed, children should be encouraged to know who they can talk to if they are feeling unwell, have lost something or cannot solve a problem on their own.
Check the Practical Requirements
Whilst the school application itself is an important part of studying overseas, there are several other requirements which parents should consider.
Depending on their age, nationality and the school they have applied to, they may need to organise the correct visa, accommodation arrangements, medical information and emergency contact details.
Parents should always refer to official UK government guidance and the requirements specified by the school rather than the advice of other families, as these may become outdated.
Students may also need assistance at airports or with travel arrangements depending on their age.
Making sure they have copies of important documents and sharing details with the school and their guardian can ensure that any issues are dealt with efficiently.
Stay Involved After Your Child Arrives
Although your child will be living and studying overseas, you still have a responsibility to support them and ensure they are well.
As well as asking about their schoolwork, parents should also ask what their child is enjoying at their new school, what they are getting up to with their friends and if they are taking advantage of the opportunities that the school has to offer.
A student may be excelling academically, but if they are struggling with making friends or dealing with personal issues, the support from teachers, boarding staff and guardians can be invaluable.
Keeping in touch can also help parents to identify any problems early on.
Parents should also remember to praise their achievements both inside and outside the classroom.
The chance to be more independent will undoubtedly be a huge step for your child. But with the right preparation and support, they can feel reassured and confident that they will have a wonderful experience away from home.