Family Embraces Gap Year for Kids' Learning Experience
A couple from Barry, Wales, took their children out of school for a family gap year, investing £27,000 to explore the world. Claire and Ian Fisher decided that travel offers unparalleled educational value and de-registered their children, Kallan (six) and Maddison (four), to embark on a nine-month journey through South East Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.
Initially concerned about the decision to de-register their children, Claire explained it was a straightforward process. The family's travels were sparked by personal loss, prompting them to seize the moment and fulfill their dreams. They were inspired by another traveling family and saved diligently to fund their adventure.
The Fishers visited countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Bali, and the Philippines. Ian and Claire worked extra jobs, sold belongings, and even moved in with family to save up for the trip. Ian took a sabbatical from his job as a director of marketing and communications, while Claire, a business coach, took on part-time work.
Throughout their travels, the children engaged in home learning with books in core subjects but gained most of their education through real-world experiences. Claire noted that their children excelled academically and adjusted well upon returning to school.
The family's travels also included trips to New York, Las Vegas, Malta, Santa's Lapland in Finland, Iceland, and a month-long safari in South Africa. They plan another extended gap year in 2026, focusing on South America and the Pacific Islands, with their youngest child, Abel, who was not part of the first adventure.
The Fishers criticize the UK's school system for its inflexibility and fines for term-time travel, arguing it restricts families from experiencing quality time together. Claire emphasized the significant benefits travel has brought to their children, noting that lower school attendance doesn't equate to lower grades.
Despite occasional negative feedback, the family receives overwhelming support and admiration on social media. They hope their experiences inspire other families to prioritize travel and time together. Claire concluded that their next gap year won’t be the last, as travel has become an integral part of their lives.