Surf1

We had a 16yr old at the time and they went into a state school ok. Then off to uni as a domestic student

We were exactly in the same boat as you. We did not keep a property in the uk. Some universities classified our 19yr old as domestic others as international. This determined where our child went as we needed student loan (which we got). Since Brexit I expect there is more competition by universities to grab students so may be some more options for you hopefully

If you have been lucky enough to keep a house in the uk while away then you can get round the rules. The processes appear to be pretty dysfunctional and vary between different universities. Unfortunately a system that favours the more wealthy in society

Been back just over a year and have been given a mortgage. I think it relates to how long you have been with an employer (6 months?) above anything else

Hi after 10 years in Perth we moved back - my wife and kids 2.5 yrs ago and me 1.5 years ago. We fancied living in the SW of Uk as we had holidays there previously and loved it. Originally looked at Devon but was not too confident in work options. Selected Somerset in end - can commute to Bristol/bath/Exeter/Cardiff and can get to London in a few hours. It's a great area and can even get down to north devon in less than 2 hours for some surfing! In fact we have done more surfing in the UK than we did in Australia as no sharks to worry about! Having travelled and worked all over the UK I think you are making a great choice - London is obviously the place for jobs but quality of life is not good unless you are wealthy (IMO). South West wins hands down - we are still blown away by the countryside everytime we leave the house!