Interview with Georgina Bambrook
What is your name, age and how long have you lived in Spain?
My name is Georgina Bambrook, I’m 31 and have lived in Javea, Costa Blanca for 16 months
What nationality are you and your partner?
We are both British
How many children do you have and what are their names and ages?
I have 2 children, Joshua age 4 and Conor 22 months
Do you work and if so what to you do?
My husband and I own Babybebe in Javea
What was your experience of relocating to Javea with children? (if relevant)
We moved when the boys were still quite young and Josh started school shortly after we relocated, they both settled in and adapted really well.
How well integrated would you say you and your children are?
Josh goes to an English school but is starting to learn the language. We have settled into the Spanish way of life and have a big Spanish customer base, although we only speak a little of the language the Spanish have been very accepting and welcoming.
What language do you speak to your children?
I speak English, but teach Josh numbers, colours and phrases etc in Spanish.
What is your impression of childcare and education in Javea so far?
The English education in the Costa Blanca is brilliant, there are also lots of really good childcare providers, I feel happier with it here than I did in the UK.
What school do your children go to?
The Firs Primary
Why did you choose this school and are you happy with your choice?
We chose The Firs as we wanted to go with an English school and The Firs has a good student teacher ratio and warm and friendly atmosphere.
Where you live, how good are the facilities for children (shops, restaurants, activities etc)?
There are some great shops, especially ours!! The majority of resturants are child friendly however there is a shortage of mother and baby groups etc
Are there any particular activities, groups, classes etc for children in Javea that you would like to recommend?
The Firs have a mother and toddler group every Monday
Are there any particular service providers (doctors, dentists, babysitters, tutors etc) for children in Javea that you would like to recommend?
The International Medical Centre in Javea is fab, they have a resident midwife, post natel clinic and the health visitor offers free baby clinics every morning.
What do you think are the main advantages and disadvantages of being a parent from the International Community living in Javea?
I think the language barrier is proberbly the main disadvantage for me, I think if I was fluent, which I hope to be one day! I would certainly integrate more with the Spanish community, The main advantage is that its so easy to meet other mums and families with children and form new friendships here, especially with the help of sites like mumabroad!
Is there anything you think would improve children’s lives in Javea?
I think it would be great to have more groups like tumble tots, music and art groups to bring Spanish and English mums and children together.
What advice would you give for anyone having a baby or thinking of relocating to Spain with children?
To do it! It’s a lovely place to bring up your children.
What couldn´t you live without in Spain?
My Spanish phrase book!
What could you live without in Spain?!
Mosquitos!
Aug 09
