We’ve recently made a life-changing decision as a young family of four—we sold our home in the UK to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Together with our two wonderful children, Isaac (5) and Amaia (6 months), we’ll be traveling the world, experiencing diverse cultures and adventures.
Why We Chose to Homeschool Isaac
Before this journey, Isaac had already started school in the UK. We felt it was important for him to experience that first step with his friends from nursery, many of whom were attending the same school. However, as much as the school has been fantastic in many ways, we began to notice some changes in Isaac’s personality.
He became increasingly anxious about others’ opinions, was sometimes too shy to ask questions, and we noticed a subtle loss of the freedom and confidence he once had.
These observations were concerning, and as parents, we wanted to foster an environment where he could learn with joy and without the unnecessary pressures that can come from traditional schooling.
This is a big part of why we decided to homeschool Isaac on our travels. Our aim is to give him not only academic knowledge but also invaluable life skills—understanding money, comparing options, negotiating, meeting new people, and gaining a deep appreciation for different cultures and languages beyond what we know in Lancashire.
Combining UK Curriculum with Global Experiences
With Isaac now at school age, we’ll be incorporating the UK curriculum into his homeschooling. We didn’t make this decision lightly.
Before we began, we had helpful conversations with Isaac’s teachers, who provided valuable advice on staying aligned with the UK’s national Key Stages. Their guidance is ensuring that Isaac’s education remains on track, even while we’re miles away from a traditional classroom.
What’s different for Isaac now is that his learning won’t come just from textbooks or worksheets, but also from hands-on experiences. As we travel, Isaac will be learning through geography, history, and immersive cultural experiences.
Whether we’re exploring ancient ruins, visiting historical cities, or learning new languages, each destination will become a living classroom.
Weekly Itineraries: Blending Education and Exploration
To ensure Isaac’s education is both structured and adventurous, we’re planning weekly itineraries that balance academics with exploration.
This approach will help him understand not just the history and geography of the places we visit but also life lessons that go far beyond a traditional classroom setting.
For example, in one city, we might focus on its architectural history in the mornings, then explore local markets in the afternoons to teach Isaac about money, trade, and cultural customs.
Each week will offer new learning opportunities, allowing him to develop a deeper understanding of the world around him. These are lessons families can only dream of, and we’re so grateful to be able to give Isaac this opportunity.
Addressing Concerns About Homeschooling on the Road
Of course, we’ve encountered many questions and concerns from friends and family regarding how we’ll manage Isaac’s education. Some have asked if homeschooling while traveling is even possible, and whether it’s risky to pull him out of the UK school system.
The good news is that homeschooling is not only allowed but also fully supported by the UK education system.
The UK curriculum is designed to be adaptable, and by using the right resources, we can ensure that Isaac remains in line with national Key Stages.
Homeschooling gives us the freedom to adjust his education based on his pace and interests while still covering essential academic milestones. And beyond the academics, we believe the life lessons he’ll gain—confidence, independence, and a global perspective—are just as important.
Our Journey Ahead
This entire adventure wouldn’t be possible if we hadn’t sold our house. The equity from the sale is allowing us to finance our travels, and Josh is fortunate to be able to work remotely for his UK-based company, ensuring a stable income while we’re on the move.
As for our youngest, Amaia, although she’s only 6 months old, she’ll be an important part of this journey too. We’re integrating her development into Isaac’s learning, fostering a strong sibling bond as they both grow and learn side by side.
As a mother on maternity leave, I’ll be taking on the full-time role of educator. While it might seem overwhelming to balance homeschooling, travel, and raising two young children, I’m excited for the opportunity to spend this precious time with our kids.
It’s a rare chance to blend academics with real-world experiences and to watch them grow not just as students, but as well-rounded individuals.
Encouraging Other Families to Take the Leap
For families who may be considering a similar path, I want to share that this lifestyle is entirely possible. Yes, it takes careful planning, financial resources, and a leap of faith—but the rewards are immeasurable. The experiences we’ll gain together, as a family, are ones we will carry with us forever.
If you have any questions or want to learn more about how we’re making this work, follow our journey on social media or feel free to reach out directly. We’re excited to share this adventure with you and show that homeschooling while traveling is not only doable but an incredibly enriching experience.
