Skip to main content

Third-culture kids – a head teacher’s perspective

Updated 4 Aug 2021

ICS London Head of School David Laird shares the importance of understanding third-culture kids.


David LairdIn an increasingly globalised world, where jobs can take families to far-flung lands, parents often want to ensure their children maintain a sense of stability, community and a rooted identity. The fear for expat families is this may not be possible when moving to foreign shores.

Third-culture kids (TCKs) was a term first used by US sociologist Ruth Hill Useem in the 1950s for children who spend their formative years in places that are not their parents’ homeland. Globalisation and a transient job market have made TCKs more common. It is widely recognised that TCKs develop their identity based on people rather than locality.

Having worked as an international school head teacher in China and Portugal and now at the International Community School in London, I’ve often had parents share TCK-related concerns with me during school admissions tours or when their children arrive for their first day at school.

An important message I convey to parents is to focus on the substantial advantages that being part of an international school community brings to young people. Part of the role of schooling is to prepare children for a future world that does not yet exist. I would argue that international schooling is best placed to meet this need.

We live in a global, technological and fast-changing society. As well as providing academic rigour, schools must provide an environment for learning where students can build resilience and foster an ability to constantly adapt. Furthermore, access to collaboration within a multicultural community can only further nurture tolerance, respect and a young person’s ability to find their place in a future global community.

However, we often yearn for those past school experiences of our own and seek to bestow them upon our children. It’s a mistake often made by politicians and elders alike. As parents, grandparents and guardians, we must ask ourselves the question: Take yourself back to your scholarly days – did your school prepare you for the world we live in now?

Expat Health Insurance

Cigna Health Insurance

Cigna Global Health Insurance

Moving your family abroad can be intimidating, but learning about medical options such as family health insurance early on can help you successfully settle in.

Limited-time offer: 10%* off for life!

Get covered today and enjoy 10%* off your health insurance policy!

Get a Free Quote

*T&Cs apply

Moving Internationally?

Sirelo logo

International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.

Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.

Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!