Moving to Singapore ?? from Aberdeen, Scotland

[Fiona S]

Hi ! just been told that we may have the chance to move out to Singapore through hubbie's work. Having a look at places to live, schools etc - does anyone have advice on where to start ??!! do I look for somewhere to live first then a school nearby or the other way round ? Any recommendations for a school which will cater for both kids (aged 6 and 1). My 6 year old is currently attending a primary school in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Any good or bad areas to avoid etc etc etc ??! HELP !!

[ScoobyDoes]

Any recommendations for a school which will cater for both kids (aged 6 and 1). My 6 year old is currently attending a primary school in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Any good or bad areas to avoid etc etc etc ??! HELP !!

It's going to be a culture shock for the kids (and you) either way so the choice of school is almost less demanding than it otherwise would, because they're all such a change.

My friend from high school is teaching around Aberdeen so i know the size etc. of his. It's a bit different here - did you tell your 6-year old yet there's no such thing as "Snow Days"?

Singapore is relatively small so travel to school is not a huge problem but the biggest choice about where to live comes down more to how much you can afford to pay for it. You'll have to be careful of Waiting Lists at International Schools if this is what you were thinking.

[Fiona S]

thanks for that, haven't actually told the kids anything as yet as nothing is set in stone - don't want to worry them without having to ! I think International School is probably what I would be looking at - as for somewhere to stay - I guess that's going to depend on what kind of package hubbie is offered !! just starting to have a look at a few things now to get an idea of life in Singapore - exciting prospect !! thanks again

[ScoobyDoes]

I guess that's going to depend on what kind of package hubbie is offered !!

That is the key, to a huge extent. How much is offered for Housing, is the schooling included and if so will it cover the potential GBP8-8,500 per year in starting fees (this is Tanglin Trust's price for Primary level)? It gets more expensive as the kids get older, then you have a second that will start Playgroup in a few years if you're still here etc.

If this level of schooling is covered then it comes down to which school is suitable for your kids as there are quite a few Int'l ones here, following different programs.

From there, where to live is determined by housing allowance.