Amy Edwards and her family have swapped the daily grind for a life on the road, homeschooling their five kids in a cosy motorhome while exploring Europe. After nine years of dreaming, the Edwards family finally took the plunge in May 2026, leaving behind the rigid UK school system and their Stoke-on-Trent home. Amy, a former self-employed hairdresser, and her husband Shane decided that traditional education just wasn’t for them. After COVID, their older kids didn’t return to school, and the younger ones never even enrolled.
Their journey began with adventures across Wales and the Peak District last summer, confirming their love for life on wheels. Now, their temporary home is parked amidst the breathtaking landscapes of France, with Spain and Portugal next on their European itinerary. For Amy, traditional schooling was too much like fitting square pegs into round holes. Instead, their kids, Reggie, 15, Belle, 8, Shane, 6, Jesse, 4, and little Nelly, 1, learn through self-led experiences, discovering what interests them and following where curiosity leads.
Amy dreams of buying land to farm and raise animals, making these experiences part of her children’s education. “The great outdoors is their playground,” Amy says, relishing the freedom they now have without term dates or holiday restrictions. She insists the adventure brings more positives than negatives, even in a somewhat cramped van.
While some might find their decision surprising, Amy and Shane’s free-spirited lifestyle made the decision feel natural. They’re embracing every moment and even considering extending their travels before settling down to create their dream homestead abroad.
So, why follow the beaten path? Take a leaf out of the Edwards’ book and embrace the adventure. Who knows, a life-changing journey might just be around the corner! 🌍✨