I wonder whether boarding schools will become a thing of the past as our austerity measures kick in, or maybe instead they will slowly fill with Chinese and Russians over the next few years (if they haven’t already). But, if you did have all the money in the world would you use some of it to send your child away to boarding school? Did you go as a child? Did it damage you or strengthen you?
I am mystified by the whole thing to be honest. Both my brothers were sent back to school in the UK because we were living in Hong Kong – my father didn’t really see any need to spend any money educating me so I went to the local International school and had a ball. My mother now says it was because I didn’t want to go – but I don’t remember my brothers jumping up and down saying “pick me pick me” – it was just what most expats did with their heirs and spares I guess. I’m not sure either brother had a great experience – in fact my younger brother positively hated it.
I know two people who have been severely affected by being sent to boarding school at a very young age – it doesn’t really surprise me – on the radio the other day I listened to a debate and the general consensus seemed to be that you do one of three things at boarding school; conform, rebel or massively fuck up.
Several of my friends are agonising over decisions to send their children away. Some have already done it and don’t see it as a problem at all. Others are really struggling with the whole concept of letting their child be brought up by somebody else. Will it change them? Will it distance them from their parents? Is that a problem? Will they become either needy or emotionally detached and uncommunicative in the future?
It wouldn’t be my choice I have to say, but that’s a personal thing. It’s not a very long period of time that you can get to know, influence and enjoy your children – why give that privilege to somebody else? Or is that a very selfish attitude if they really want to go? Or your partner really wants them to go?
Expat Mum
December 20, 2011I don’t think it’s as bad as it used to be but I’m still not sure I could so it with small kids. A close friend has two fairly young children in boarding school but she sees them almost every weekend and they seem to love it. I was bad enough when the Queenager went off to college so I’m not sure I would cope with them leaving any younger.
Family Affairs
December 20, 2011i know. I agree, but yes it’s probably not like it used to be x
Kelloggsville
December 21, 2011Children are made for cuddling. How does that happen if they are away?!
Family Affairs
December 21, 2011So true….Lx