Of a Family

What prompted your move to the Falkland Islands?

My husband and I were both working full-time with 40-minute commutes and the usual nursery and school drop-offs in the mornings. Life felt like a constant rush – traffic, clubs, appointments- and not enough quality time together as a family.
We wanted to experience a different way of living while the kids were still young. I was keen on an English-speaking country, but somewhere with international influence and outdoor experiences. When I researched the Falklands, the scenery reminded me of Scotland. The slower pace, lack of commute, and smaller community were a big draw.

How did your career evolve after moving?

I initially took a career break to help the kids settle into school and adjust to our new environment. Once they adapted (which didn’t take long!), I felt ready for something new. I didn’t want to return to teaching and decided to explore a different path.
Now, I work as the Climate Change Officer in the Environment Department. Because of the small team, I’ve gained hands-on experience in a huge range of projects. In a similar role in the UK, I’d probably be one of many on a big team. Here, I’ve managed whole projects myself, and that’s been invaluable for personal and professional growth.

Were there career opportunities on the Falklands that you wouldn’t have found elsewhere?

Definitely. When we had visitors from DEFRA, one of them told me he had 20 people working on what I was doing alone here! That gives you an idea of the breadth of experience you can gain. You really learn by doing, and you’re constantly collaborating with other departments and professionals because of how closely everyone works together.

How does your work-life balance compare to life in the UK?

It’s completely different. I either walk 15 minutes or drive three to get to work. We all go home for lunch, including the kids. If the weather’s good, we’ll sometimes sneak in a quick beach visit over lunch. Everything is nearby, which means we can all do hobbies or sports, but still have time as a family.

Tell us about your family.

There are five of us. Our three daughters were 4, 7, and 9 when we moved here, and we brought our Labrador, Cookie, with us too.

How did you find the move with kids?

It was a bit intense as we moved during COVID, so there were added stressors. We initially planned for just two years, so we stored most of our belongings, but we’ve since shipped over a lot more.
My top advice is to prepare well. Understand what’s not available locally and ship those items. I brought future sizes of clothes and shoes for the kids, and good outdoor gear-it really helped them feel comfortable and settled.

How would you describe the education in the Falklands?

The curriculum is based on the UK system, so the girls settled in smoothly. Class sizes are small, which means teachers get to know the children well. Spanish is introduced early, and my youngest can already hold basic conversations.
My eldest is now choosing her GCSEs-there’s a great range here, including subjects like drama, marine science, and further maths. Post-16 education usually means going to the UK, which is an exciting opportunity.

Would you recommend the Falklands as a place to raise a family?

Absolutely. There’s less pressure to grow up too fast, and kids can just be kids. Because mobile data isn’t everywhere, there’s less screen time and more outdoor fun. We eat out together, explore wildlife, travel around the islands, and even go on holiday in South America.

How are your kids enjoying life here?

Eldest: I was 9 when we moved. There’s a lot more freedom here – I can walk to the café or the beach with friends. The downside is it’s small, so if you fall out with someone, there aren’t a lot of options for making other friends. It can also be tough when friends leave the country, which does happen! But I have friends all over the world now, which is cool!

Middle: I was 7. I agree! You appreciate getting stuff more here because you wait so long for it to arrive. I love the wildlife, beaches and the mountain scenery here. I’ve even started paddleboarding.

Youngest: I was 4 when I moved. I have more friends here than in England. I love the penguins -they’re my favourite – and I like paddling in the sea with my friends. I miss my grandparents as they can’t visit as often.

What were your first impressions of the Falklands?

The open space blew me away. Stanley is small but has everything you need, and within 10 minutes you can be hiking or walking along the coast, surrounded by some magnificent views of the ocean and mountains. People are very friendly – everyone says hello or waves, even if they don’t know you.

What activities have you picked up since arriving? 

I’ve started sewing, quilting, choir, swimming, and even tag rugby. The girls have joined the swim club, football teams, Brownies, and a local conservation group. There’s a club or event for nearly everything here.

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced? 

The biggest was adjusting to the lack of shopping options. You don’t get the choice you’re used to in the UK, and sometimes things just run out. I’ve learned to stock up and be more flexible. Planning ahead for school dress-up days or birthdays is key – you have to either be organised or creative!

What does a typical day look like?

Images supplied by Debbie Barlow